Sports on Hold? The Facts on Activities During Your Period

Does having your period keep you from doing things you like?
It sure doesn't have to! There's no reason why having your period should keep you from doing what you enjoy—exercise, sports, working, or playing. With proper use of Tampax tampons or Always pads and pantiliners, you can wear your favorite clothes without worrying that anything can be "seen," and you can pretty much bet your good clothes won't get stained.

Can you play sports when you have your period?
Having a period is a normal, healthy part of being a woman. Whether you wear a pad or a tampon, you can still play any sport and exercise.

Can you swim during menstruation?
Yes. The use of tampons has made it possible for swimming with your period since the flow is absorbed internally. (It's always a good idea to change your tampon right before and after you go swimming.) We don't recommend wearing a pad when you swim since it will become wet and not absorb your menstrual flow.

How does exercise affect menstruation?
A little exercise doesn't affect the amount of flow or length of your period. In fact, it usually helps to relieve menstrual cramps. Since exercise is important for good health, it should be part of your daily routine. But very intense physical activity—like training to run a marathon—may cause amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstrual periods.

Can you take a hot bath during your period?
During your period, it's most important to keep yourself fresh and clean. A hot bath or shower is fine—in fact, it can help cramps or just relax you in general. Most women like to wear a tampon if they plan to take a nice long bath during their periods.

Can you wash your hair during menstruation?
Yes. You should wash your hair regularly so you will look and feel good. There is no reason not to wash your hair while you are menstruating. Water won't stop your flow. If you wash your hair in the shower and you are flowing heavily, you may want to wear a tampon. Although some prefer to shower without wearing a tampon—it's a personal choice.