Periods and Diving: Can You Still Dive on Your Period?
We’ve all wondered it at some point: Can I still dive on my period? Honestly, I was hesitant too. Thoughts like “Will this leak?”, “Am I going to ruin my $900 wetsuit?”, and “Will this make my cramps worse?” definitely crossed my mind. For anyone who menstruates, diving on your period can seem like a daunting concept at first.
As an instructor, I’ve already had students approach me on Day 1 of their course worried because they just got their period. The answer? Absolutely, you can still dive!
No, Sharks Won’t Eat You
Let’s get one myth out of the way—no, sharks aren’t going to come after you because you're on your period. Sharks are attracted to fish blood, not human blood. If this myth were true, shark lovers would probably be diving on their period on purpose just to see them! So, breathe easy—you're not suddenly more "tasty" in the water.
Things to Be Mindful Of
While diving on your period is totally fine, there are a few things worth being extra cautious about:
Decompression Sickness (DCS) Risks
Some studies suggest that menstruating divers—especially during the follicular phase (the two weeks before ovulation, which includes your period)—may be slightly more susceptible to DCS. It’s not a reason to panic, but it’s worth diving more conservatively:
- Stick to shallower dives when possible
- Adjust your dive computer to a more conservative setting
Hormonal changes can also affect:
- Temperature regulation – You might feel the cold more intensely.
- Fatigue and dehydration – Both can increase DCS risk.
Make sure you’re:
- Wearing adequate thermal protection (even in warmer water, consider a wetsuit or thermal vest)
- Well-fed, well-rested, and well-hydrated
- Assessing the physical demands of your dive (long walks, strong currents, surface swims) and choosing what’s right for you
Pro tip: If you can, opt for boat dives—they’re a great way to minimize physical stress during that time of the month.
Buoyancy Fluctuations
Many people experience fluid retention while menstruating, which can subtly affect buoyancy. If you find yourself struggling to descend, you’re not imagining it—you might just need an extra kilogram or two on your weight belt. Make a note in your logbook so you remember for next time.
The Unexpected Bonus: Diving Can Help!
Here’s the good news—diving might actually make you feel better. Water pressure (especially at depth) often slows your flow, and many divers report reduced cramps and mood improvement after a dive.
Personally, I’ve found that the more I dive during my period, the lighter and less painful my cycles have become over time. Being underwater often makes me forget I even have it.
Exercise, including diving, is known to alleviate menstrual cramps and boost your mood. The menstrual cycle doesn’t limit your body’s ability to perform in the water—you’ve got this.
Period Products That Work for Diving
We’re lucky to have more options than ever when it comes to period products—many of which are eco-conscious and plastic-free.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are a popular choice for divers:
- Made from medical-grade silicone
- Reusable for up to 10 years
- Comfortable, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly
- Safe for diving as they don’t create a sealed airspace
Many divers swear by them!
Period underwear/swimwear
Period underwear and swimwear offer a comfortable, leak-proof option for ocean lovers:
- Made with absorbent, breathable fabrics designed for flow protection
- Reusable and easy to wash, reducing single-use waste
- Designed to feel just like regular underwear or swimwear—no bulk or discomfort
- Safe and reliable for swimming and diving without worrying about leaks
A favorite for those seeking eco-friendly and hassle-free period solutions!
Tampons
Still a solid and easy option:
- Insert before your dive and change after (or between dives, depending on your flow)
- Now available plastic-free, biodegradable, or with cardboard applicators
Choose what works best for you—comfort, confidence, and convenience are key.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a diver who menstruates, some of this may resonate with you—and some may not. Your body is unique. Maybe diving helps with your symptoms, maybe it doesn’t. Maybe you need to skip a dive, and that’s perfectly okay.
At the end of the day, you know your body best. Trust how you feel and make the decision that supports your physical and mental wellbeing.
And if you decide to dive on your period—know that you're not alone, you’re absolutely capable, and you might even forget you're on it once you’re underwater.
