No, pads should not go underwater.
Why Pads Aren't Suitable for Swimming
Pads are designed to absorb menstrual flow, and they do so by drawing fluid into their absorbent core. When submerged in water, a pad will:
- Absorb water: Pads will quickly soak up water rather than menstrual fluid, causing them to become saturated, bulky, and ineffective.
- Lose effectiveness: Once a pad is waterlogged, it cannot absorb menstrual flow and may leak.
- Become uncomfortable: The wet pad will feel heavy and may shift or fall out of place.
The Right Alternative: Tampons
According to the provided reference, a pad won't work underwater. The best alternative is to use a tampon, as tampons absorb menstrual flow from the inside. This means that being in water does not affect them.
- Tampons absorb internally: Tampons are inserted into the vaginal canal to absorb menstrual flow before it leaves the body. This prevents the tampon from getting saturated with pool, ocean, or bathwater.
- No Bulky Discomfort: Unlike waterlogged pads, tampons remain compact, and allow comfortable and leak-free swimming experience.
- Proper Insertion is Important: If you haven't used a tampon before, it's beneficial to seek guidance from a trusted individual like a mother, aunt, or older sibling.
Summary Table
| Feature | Pad | Tampon |
|---|---|---|
| Water Use | Not recommended | Suitable |
| Absorption | External | Internal |
| Effect in Water | Absorbs water, ineffective | Not affected by water |
| Comfort | Uncomfortable when wet | Comfortable |
