Let’s be real, periods can be physically draining. The bath may sound like the perfect place to escape (because it is), but will it be messy? Safe? Do periods stop in water? Should you wear a tampon when you take a shower or bath? If you've ended up on this page, you’ve probably been wondering the answer to all of the above concerns, even if you’ve been afraid to ask the questions. No worries, this is a safe space. Now, it’s time to find out the truth about periods and water.
Can you take a bath while on your period?
You can absolutely take a bath on your period. And, if you’re looking for a little relief from period symptoms, the bath may be the perfect place to escape! For some of us though, the idea of taking a bath on your period is nauseating. The thought of blood and period odor intermixing with fresh bath water might not seem appealing. If this is you, take a shower instead, but consider the benefits of a bath before making this decision!. Keep in mind that it’s fine to wear a tampon in the bath too.
Here are some of the pros and cons of taking a bath while on your period.
Pros:
- Ease cramps and other period symptoms
- Reset your emotional state
- Improve your mood
Cons:
- Risk of developing an infection
- Menstrual blood may leak into bathwater (warm water may increase flow)
- Hot baths may have negative health effects for women experiencing mild anemia
Does your period stop in water?
It’s a myth, ladies. Your period does not magically stop in water. So, that escape to the bath may help you relax but it won’t make your period go away all together. Just because you may not see it flowing, does not mean it’s not. The counter pressure of the water can slow down the flow or stop blood from flowing outside of the vagina, hence why you may think your period has stopped. If you’re taking a private bath you may prefer to do so without flow protection. However, if you’re swimming or jacuzzing, you should do so with protection to be safe.
Top reasons it’s a good idea to take a bath while on your period:
Baths are therapeutic. . . the free kind. Just hearing the warm bath water run provides an instant sign that it’s time to unwind. From relieving headaches and body aches to reducing stress, baths are good for our health. While the warm water is part of the reason they are good for us, the other part is the opportunity to disconnect with others and connect with yourself.
If you don’t have a bath or don’t enjoy baths, keep in mind you can still enjoy some of the benefits without taking a bath. If you have the opportunity though, give taking a bath on your period a chance. Hopefully, you’ll feel like a new woman. Here are some of the top reasons why it’s a good idea to take a bath while on your period:
- Hygiene. Hygiene is one of the most important reasons to take a bath while on your period. On or off your period, good hygiene is essential for good health. You can prevent infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) by practicing good hygiene on your period. This includes taking baths.
- Odors. Period odors may feel impossible to battle. While others may not smell them, you feel like you just can’t escape them. Taking a bath can help reduce odors down there.
- Natural relief. We all need an escape sometimes. Whether it’s a week's vacation or a 15-minute bath, natural relief promotes good health. Periods can leave us feeling tired, crampy, bloated, and just blah. Taking a bath can help you get natural relief in the comfort of your own home.
- Reduce cramps. A hot bath can relax abdominal muscles which can settle cramps while providing other pain relief such as backaches and headaches.
- Get things moving. Periods may cause constipation and gas. . .but you already know that. A bath can increase blood flow and help you find some relief from constipation and gas.
Tips before taking a bath on your period
Before taking a bath on your period, there are some things you should keep in mind. Here are some tips to promote a healthy and enjoyable bathing experience.
- Remove your pad, tampon or cup
- Clean your nether regions before taking a bath if wearing leakproof undies or pads
- Clean the bathtub before bathing
- Avoid scented or chemical heavy products
- Rinse from front to back
- Clean the vagina from outside (remember, it’s a self-cleaning organ)
Tips for after taking a bath while on your period
You did it. You took a bath on your period! Do you feel better now? Here are some tips for after taking a bath while on your period.
- Gently dry your female areas
- Use period underwear to maintain that fresh and free feeling
- Change your tampon
Periods can leave us feeling icky in so many ways. From annoying tampon strings to painful side effects, periods can be disruptive to our everyday life. While you may dread your period, there are reasons to also appreciate it. Periods are a sign that your body is healthy and working. If you’re looking for ways to make your period more enjoyable, if that’s possible, hear us out, ladies. Leakproof underwear may not cure cramps and headaches, but it can offer protection from leaks and freedom from crinkly pads and hard to insert tampons. Also, they are good for the environment. On average, a single woman may dispose of 11,000 tampons in her lifetime! You may only be one woman, but your decision to eliminate single-use plastics can make an impact on the environment.
Proof leakproof undies are a reusable alternative to traditional period and incontinence products. Whether you're sleeping tight or working out, you can wear Proof leakproof undies for protection against leaks. From light to heavy flow, our collection of leakproof undies has you covered. You can wear them solo or pair with your favorite tampon or cup. In addition, make sure you have a fresh clean pair ready for post-bath relaxation.
Take control of your period. . . try Proof leakproof undies today!
