I get sad and I’m scared to swim
Being prepared for swim school
Question: My dad wants me to stay fit so he sends me to swimming once a week. But I'm really worried I'll get my period in the pool because I'm 13 and I know it will come any day now. I am terrified. I don't know want to do! Should I talk to my mum so she can talk to him or something?! What about if I do go swimming and I get it what should I do???
Lately I've been having days where I'm really sad and I like an crying for no reason.... My mum says that that's what happens to her the day before she gets her period and I want to know am I getting my period?????
Dr. Farah Kroman: Swimming is really good for you. Don't worry. Even if you are swimming when your period starts the flow is likely to be very light and probably won't be noticed. Have a tampon in your bag just in case. Sadness can be a part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) which happens in the days leading up to a period starting or it can be more general sadness/depression brought about by the new hormones in puberty. Have a read at www.headspace.org.au or www.beyondblue.org.au. If you'd like to talk with a professional to help you deal with sadness try kids helpline (p. 1800 55 1800) or your school counsellor or GP.
Question: My periods are becoming irregular,and in a couple of weeks I'll be attending swim school since it part from the PE unit.I know my periods are going to come around then,but I can't exactly pin-point a date.What should I do to be prepared for it ?
Dr. Farah Kroman: Swimming is great when you have your period. It can reduce your crampy period pain and improve your mood. Of course, if you are swimming during your period, you will need to wear a tampon, so you can be prepared for swim school by having some tampons in your PE bag. A pad will not block the blood flow and will probably start to fall apart. Make sure you change your tampon after you get out of the water as it might be a little wet. Remember, it can take some time for a girl to develop a regular menstrual cycle and some girls can vary by a few days every cycle, even when they’ve had their periods for years. If after 12 months, your cycles are not fairly regular, or occur infrequently or too often (for example less than 3 weeks or every few months), see your GP for advice.
Question: Can you go swimming with a pad on?
Dr. Farah Kroman: I wouldn't recommend swimming with a pad.. It will become water logged and won't be able to absorb blood, which may mean you end up with leakage. I suggest you use a tampon for swimming or avoid swimming during your period.
