You've probably heard of period pants - they're all the rage right now - but have you heard of period swimwear? We've already talked about how we love reusable period pants as a sustainable alternative to disposable menstrual products, and how they can be used for postpartum bleeding as well as periods thereafter, well, how about period swimwear to give you peace of mind about postpartum bleeding when swimming after birth?
We share the best period swimwear (UK) here, and also explain exactly what it is and what to expect, as well as the difference between period swimwear and postpartum swimsuits.
What is period swimwear?
According to Cheeky Wipes "Period swimwear has an absorbent lining which is slightly thinner than some period pants. It absorbs period blood and makes it leak proof and suitable for light to medium flow or one tampons worth of flow. On lighter days, you can wear for longer."
This makes period swimwear ideal postpartum if you're just experiencing some light spotting or are worried that wearing a tampon might not do the job if after giving birth you want to take a dip in the pool or get started on a new water fitness regime to get back into shape.
Cheeky Wipes do advise wearing a menstrual cup or tampons to absorb some menstrual blood if you're going to be in the water for a long time, especially on medium flow days or heavy flow days, so if you're using perdio swimwear postpartum, this might be sensible too.
Good period swimwear will have an antibacterial gusset that is breathable and quick drying, and the outer fabric of the costume is water repellent so that water doesn't absorb into the inside of the swimsuit. This also helps to keep any bleeding contained within the swimsuit gusset area too, preventing it from seeping out into the water and giving you away! Of course, you'll have to choose a swimsuit that fits your body properly, especially around the legs, as any gaping that happens during movement will compromise the swimsuit's function.
What's the difference between period swimwear and postpartum swimsuits?
Postpartum swimsuits are a bit different to period swimsuits as they are designed with features that help support your body after birth so that you feel confident in the pool.
For example this Cave Textured Post-Maternity Compression Swimsuit by Seraphine has super-stretchy fabric helps to hold and support the postpartum tummy, with a front and back lined with powermesh, which assists in toning and smoothing the body and an under-band seam with hidden support and fixed light foam cups.
Period swimwear, on the other hand, may not have the same structural design choices as a postpartum swimsuit, but the design and functional focus is on protecting you when you're in the pool with those all-important absorbancy and water-repellent features to help you avoid any embarassing leakages! Which is why we love a period swimsuit for potential postpartum bleeding.
Where can I buy period swimwear in the UK?
There are a number of brands like Modibodi, Fluxies and Cheeky Wipes, not to mention your favourite stores like - John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Argos, that offer a range of period swimwear and postpartum swimwear.A quick Google search will also point you in the direction of some great places to look, you can even find period swimsuits on Amazon!
To make things easy for you, Mother & Baby shopping experts have chosen a range of period swimsuits from our favourite stores and brands, sharing what the things we think you ought to know before you buy.
Best period swimwear at a glance
Here's our at-a-glace pick of the best period proof swimwear - We've covered the best period swimwear for heavy flow and light flow, plus the most flattering and sporty...
• Best overall period swimwear: Modibodi high absorbancy v-neck - On sale now at Modibodi
• Best period swimwear for a flattering fit: Love Luna black one-piece - Buy now from John Lewis
• Best period swimwear for a light flow: Modibodi light to moderate - Buy now from John Lewis
• Best period swimwear for a heavy flow: M&S Collection scoop neck - Buy now from M&S
• Best period swimwear for activewear: Love Luna ladies period squad swimsuit - Buy now from Argos
The best period swimwear for postpartum 2024
Best overall period swimwear
Modibodiwww.modibodi.co.uk
Unlike most other period swimsuits, this one by Modibodi is available in three gorgeous colours - Sahara red, oasis green and classic black. With an attractive neckline and low scoop back, it's a soft-yet-supportive one piece made with ECONYL® yarn that hugs your body with a 2-way stretch design that's flattering and comfortable for all shapes and bodies. Not only does this swimsuit look good with its high leg cut and cheeky bottom coverage, but it also has a built in, supportive shelf bra with removable foam cups, offering comfort and shape for all bust sizes. But the best thing about it is its high absorbancy for pesky period/postpartum leaks!
This swimsuit can absorb up to 40ml, which is the equivalent to 8 tampons or 8 teaspoons, meaning you truly get peace of mind in the pool, whether you're on your period or you're postpartum. One customer who puyrchase one for her daughter said; "Worked beautifully, even on the first day. No leaks!"
The swimsuit has a two-layer gusset. The first layer consists of a uniquely designed and lab-tested Modibodi textured fabrication that holds up to 40ml without leaking, and the second is a waterproof layer that sits between the absorbency layer and the outer layer for an extra barrier of protection and that all-important peace of mind. The concealed two-layer lining absorbs moderate-heavy periods, leaks and spotting, in and out of the water, making it a great alternative for disposable pads, tampons and liners at the beach or pool or can be worn as back up.
If you were wondering - ECONYL® yarn is a 100% regenerated nylon fibre from pre and post-consumer waste such as fishing nets and other nylon waste, so you can feel good about not having to use disposables, and the fact that your swimsuit is also made from eco-friendly material! Keep in mind that this period swimsuit is more expensive than some of the others in this list, but buyers think it's worth the money. One reviewer wrote; "I was hesitant to buy this originally due to money. But it was worth it's weight in gold on my beach holiday where there were not many facilities. It looks elegant, you won't know it was a period costume. Love it." The brand recommends purchasing the correct size for your body, saying, "our swimwear needs to fit snugly against your body at the leg opening to ensure the leakproof gusset technology can do its thing."
Take advantage of the generous discount currently available!
Pros
- Absorbs up to 40ml - the equivalent to 8 tampons or 8 teaspoons
- Available in three gorgeous colours - Sahara red, oasis green and classic black
- Attractive design with gorgeous neckline, low scoop back, high leg cut and cheeky bottom coverage
- 2-way stretch design that's flattering and comfortable for all shapes and bodies
- Built-in supportive shelf bra & removable foam cups - comfort/shape for all bust sizes
- Made from eco-friendly regenerated nylon fibre, from pre and post-consumer waste
Cons
- More expensive than other options
| Materials: | Outer: 78% Recycled Polyamide 22% Elastane Liner: 85% Pre Consumer Recycled Nylon 15% Elastane with Rudolph Water Repellent Gusset: 100% Polyester |
| Design: | v-neckline, low scoop back, high leg cut and cheeky bottom coverage |
Best period swimwear for a flattering fit
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Featuring Love Luna's trusted four clever layers of perfect protection, this flattering black ladies one-piece period swimsuit with a classic back style and square neckline will keep your period or postpartum bleeding safely locked away within the clever water-repellent fabric - whether you're in the water or not. Keep in mind that this swimsuit is designed for medium flow coverage and can absorb 10-15ml (2-3 regular tampons). The four-way stretch fabric is water repellent and offers a smooth fit over the body, meaning you can feel confident enough in a second skin after giving birth to take a dip. The design provides medium bum coverage and a built in shelf bra with removable pads and adjustable straps.
One customer braved it and bought this product for her holdiay. Here is her honest review: "It worked for moderate flow, not so much for a heavier flow. I was very nervous relying on just the suit to protect me whilst in the water, but it did just that. I thought I try it with a heavier flow, however the suit on its own was not a good idea!" If you're worried about leaking it's a good idea to wear a tampon or menstrual cup for added peace of mind - Why not invest in their Luna Menstrual Cup as the perfect backup,and avoid using disposable tampons. They say their Love Luna Period products are PFAS free, keeping you (and the planet) safe!
This buyer did say that the fit was perfect and true to the description. She found it flattering and liked that the straps were adjustable, whereas another reviewer shared "Wanted a really plain black cossie. Very small so suggest size up. Lining showed at front, possibly because so small, not sure. Returned it as didn't fit, but probably a nice cossie." the original customer thought more support would be needed for anyone who is larger on top, but overall, said she would recommend the swimsuit and buy it again.
Pros
- Designed for medium flow coverage and can absorb 10-15ml (2-3 regular tampons)
- Four-way stretch fabric is water repellent and offers a smooth fit
- Available up to size 24 and most John Lewis customers say it fits true to size
- Flattering plain black with a classic back style and square neck design
- Offers medium support with adjustable straps and built in shelf bra with removable pads
Cons
- John Lewis only offer up to size 20
- One customer described their purchase as very small and suggest sizing up
- Not suitable for a heavy flow
- May not be suitable for larger chested women
| Materials: | Main: 77% polyamide, 23% elastane, Lining: 91% nylon, 9% elastane |
| Design: | Square neckline and classic back style |
Best period swimwear for a light flow
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
If you're looking for a simple design, you'll love this fuss-free scoop neckline and comfortable classic back period swimsuit by Modibodi - we love the subtle strap detail too! The black fabric is breathable, lightweight and sweat-resistant (wicking), which means you can hang out by the pool on holiday no problem. We like that it's machine washable at 30°C making it convenient to clean.
The swimsuit is available up to XXL, however, keep in mind that John Lewis customers have said the fit is small and it's short in body length, so you may want to consider sizing up. One customer said, "I struggle to find swimming costumes that flatter me (I'm fairly short at 5'4'' and am wider at the hips than at the waist, so costumes are normally either too long or dig in at the hips). So for me, this one is perfect, so much so I'm buying a 2nd one so it doesn't wear out!"
Don't forget too that this period swimsuit is only designed for a light flow, so for extra peace of mind we'd recommend wearing extra protection and thinking of this swimsuit as a backup.
Pros
- Simple black design with a fuss-free scoop neckline and a comfortable classic back
- Breathable, lightweight and sweat-resistant (Wicking) fabric
- Available up to XXL
- Machine Washable at 30°C
Cons
- John Lewis customers say the fit is small and it's short in the body length
- Light control level
| Materials: | 82% recycled nylon, 18% elastane, Lining: 86% recycled nylon, 14% elastane, Gusset: 100% polyester excluding trims |
| Design: | Scoop neckline and a classic back - non wired and non padded |
Best period swimwear for a heavy flow
Marks & Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
This regular fit period swimsuit is part of the M&S Collection and is thoughtfully designed to to help you feel confident in the water with high absorbency for days when your flow is heavy. One reviewer said, "I wore this swimsuit when I was having a period and it worked really well. I wasn’t doing anything that energetic more playing with kids in the pool but it felt secure. I got compliments on how it looked as well. Recommended."
The versatile and stylish swimsuit has a modern shape with its flattering scoop neck, and the added stretch in the fabric paired with a high-leg cut offers more easy movement in the pool and is non-wired for extra comfort. A customer describes the swimsuit as a... "Really good fit and no leaks - gave me lots of confidence on holiday so I could enjoy time with my children rather than worrying about where and how to change tampons hygenically."
Other customers have had mixed opinions on the fit though, saying they thought it lacked shape, was very low cut in the front and short in the body. So this might not be the best choice for bigger-busted women, especially as customers have also commented on lack of chest support, or if you are doing a lot of active swimming.
Pros
- Designed for a heavy flow
- High cut leg provides more movement in the water
- Available up to size 24
- Reviews mention the swimsuit is true to size
- Machine washable at 40°C
Cons
- Low cut in the front and short in the body, as described by some customers
- Doesn't provide much chest support for bigger-busted women
| Materials: | 80% polyamide, 20% elastane, Body lining - 100% polyester, Trimming - 100% polyester , Trimming 1 - 66% cotton, 34% polyester |
| Design: | Regular fit and non-wired with scoop neck and high-leg |
Best period swimwear for activewear
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
This is a flattering ladies swimsuit that's ideal for swim training, workout and squad swimming - the open lower back design with elastic straps around the underarm and back help keep the shoulders clear to allow for maximum flexibility and movement in the water. Plus, you'll have peace of mind while on your period or when experiencing postpartum bleeding with Love Luna's trusted four clever layers of perfect protection and clever water-repellent fabric that'll keep your period safely locked away both in and out of the water.
known for being eco-friendly, the brand's products are PFAS free, and you can feel confident to turn your back on using pesky disposables and wear their period swimsuit in favour of keeping the planet safe. It is designed for medium flow coverage and can absorb 10-15ml (2-3 regular tampons). But if you're still nervous you can buy the Luna Menstrual Cup as the perfect backup, and avoid using disposable tampons.
Pros
- 4 clever layers of perfect protection and water-repellent fabric offers peace of mind
- Open lower back for more flexibity in the water
- Elastic straps underarm and back keep shoulders clear for maximum movement
- Available up to size 20
Cons
- Unfortunately there were no reviews for this product
| Materials: | Main Body: 77% Polyamide, 23% Elastane. Lining: 91% Nylon, 9% Spandex. Gusset: 100% Cotton. Padding: 80% Cotton, 20% Polyester |
| Design: | Open lower back with elastic straps around the underarm and back |
Does period proof swimwear really work?
if you're wondering - does period swimwear keep you dry? The answer is... well, it depends! There are a few different things to consider, and you'll have to take these into account when choosing a period swimsuit.
Firstly, how much absorbancy do you need? Not all period swinsuits are made the same, so it's important to check product descriptions, as well as read reviews to find out about the experience buyers have had actually using the swimsuit. Generally, period swimwear works to prevent leaks but unless it states different, they are only be used on light to medium flow days or with a light period. So if you're using a period swimsuit to catch your postpartum bleeding this is something to consider - will you need extra protection?
Can you swim with just period swimwear?
Are there swimsuits you can wear on your period without a tampon? Yes, there are. Some period swimsuits have been designed specially to cater for a heavier flow, which is great news if you don't want to wear a tampon. However, it's important to get a good fit, because the effectiveness of period swimsuits depends on the fit, especially around the leg.
If you're worried about leaks, but want to wear a period swimsuit as it's more eco-friendly than wearibng a tampon, why not try wearning a menstrual cup as well? This way you can have peace of mind knowing that you're swimsuit will be an effective backup
Best swimwear for postpartum
If you've had your baby and your maternity swimsuit doesn't fit anymore, you may be wondering what to wear swimming postpartum, the best postpartum swimwear may indeed be a period swimsuit. Swimsuits designed for postpartum can focus on design for a more flattering and supportive fit for your body after giving birth, whereas a period swimsuit has been designed specially to absorb bleeding.
Many new mums opt for a one-piece for better coverage and tummy support while they get their body back into shape, but this isn't the case for everyone, and if you feel comfortable and confident to wear a two-piece, go for it - Your body is amazing and beautiful!
Proud aunt to her teen niece, Zara Mohammed is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby. She has 10 years freelance writing experience creating lifestyle content for various platforms, including pregnancy, women’s health, parenting, child development and child mental health, plus lots of fun seasonal family articles and celebrity news.