As a women’s surfing collective one of the questions we hear all the time is, ‘Can you surf on your period?’ And our answer is a resounding YES! Surfing on your period doesn’t have to be as perilous as you think! With our quick guide, you’ll discover our expert team’s top tips and hacks for staying comfortable, safe and confident while catching waves—no matter the time of the month!
Can You Surf On Your Period?
Yes, absolutely! Surfing on your period isn’t something to be scared of, in fact, surfing on your period can actually be an incredible mood booster and great for your body. That said, if you’re new to surfing, or new to having your period it’s totally normal to feel nervous or to have questions – which is why we’ve created this handy guide to give you all the answers. Remember, the most important thing is to listen to your body. If you don’t feel like surfing, you don’t have to! Rest is just as essential, so always do what feels right for you.
Keep Surf Sessions Short and Sweet
First and foremost, when surfing on your period (or even considering it), keep your sessions short and stress-free. During your period, you might feel a bit clumsier, get frustrated more easily, or be dealing with pain—period cramps are no joke! That’s why it’s important to check the surf conditions beforehand and make sure they’re right for you. Surfing in conditions where you feel comfortable and confident ensures you’ll still have a great time without pushing yourself too hard when you’re not feeling 100%.
Why Surf When You’re On Your Period?
When you’re on your period, hitting the water can seriously work wonders! The cold water on your skin, the adrenaline rush from catching a wave, and just getting your body moving can wipe away those period blues and ease any cramps or anxiety you’re feeling. The key? Listen to your body and take it easy. If you need to skip a few days of surfing, no worries! It’s definitely not the end of the world and might be exactly the break your body needs.
Best Products for Surfing On Your Period
Many women find that the pressure of the water on your body while surfing causes your period to stop while your in the water. However, it’s important that you feel comfortable and if you’re worried about leaks there are some awesome products out there to use to put your mind and body at ease. Here are a few we recommend for hitting the waves during your period:
1. Menstrual Cups
Most female surfers are big fans of menstrual cups (also known as Mooncups), and for good reason! These small, flexible cups are inserted like a tampon and form a seal against the vaginal wall, so no water or blood can sneak in or out. They’re super reliable with a low risk of leaks, can be worn for up to 12 hours, and are eco-friendly since they’re reusable. Once you’re done, just rinse and reuse—easy, sustainable, and hassle-free! That’s why menstrual cups are our top pick for surfing on your period!
2. Bikini Period Pants
Bikini Period Pants are another awesome, eco-friendly option that’s been making waves in women’s health recently! These comfy pants have an absorbent lining and are worn under your bikini—perfect for keeping things hassle-free while you surf. Plus, they’re totally waste-free; just toss them in the wash after you’re done! There are plenty of great brands out there, but we love Modibodi’s Light to Medium pair. With the absorbency of two tampons, they’re long-lasting, sustainable, and super comfortable for surfing on your period!
3. Tampons
Tampons have long been a go-to for surfers during their period, and for good reason! They’re easy to use, discreet, and can last 4-8 hours—perfect for shorter sessions in the water. However, tampons do absorb water, which makes them less ideal for longer surf days. They can also soak up seawater, which increases the risk of bacteria and infections. To play it safe, stick to tampons for quick surf sessions and be sure to change them right after you get out of the water. Keep it simple and stay surf happy!
So those are Women + Waves’ top tips for surfing on your period, but the adventure doesn’t stop here! If you’ve got any extra tricks, hacks, or ideas that help you feel even more confident out on the waves, we want to hear from you. Drop your suggestions in the comments below and let’s keep the stoke going!
