How our period bathers *actually* work
We often get asked, can you swim on your period? Of course, the answer is yes if you want to. Getting in the water can be refreshing and a natural pain relief from pesky cramps. But let’s be real. When you’re menstruating, often the last thing you want to do is strip down and get wet.
For many people, the idea of swimming during their period can be a major source of anxiety. Tampons and pads can feel uncomfortable or unreliable in the water. And going without any protection at all? File that under downright stressful.
That's where Modibodi period bathers come in.
Our period swimmers look and feel just like regular bathers, but they also absorb 1-2 tampons of period or pee without leaking. Mind-blowing, right?
To unpack exactly how the technology behind our leak-proof, water-resistant swimwear works, we asked Modibodi Product and Innovation Director, Charissa Lanham.
Period bathers sound like magic. How does it work?
Our original swimwear technology has a two-layer lining. Layer one consists of a uniquely designed Modibodi fabrication that holds up to 10ml (1-2 tampons worth) without leaking.
Layer two is a waterproof layer that sits between the absorbency layer and the outer layer for an extra barrier of protection and peace of mind. The outer fabric has a water repellent treatment applied to add an extra layer of protection from leaks.
How do period bathers work?
The secret is in the period swimwear’s hidden lining. It uses clever technology to absorb 1-2 tampons of blood when you’re in or out of the water.
A second leak-proof layer is water resistant to keep the pool or ocean water away from the blood inside, so you don’t have to worry about leaking.
So, one layer absorbs moisture but it’s also water repellent. How is water able to escape when we’re wet, but not blood or pee?
The secret is all in the fit. Our period bathers need to fit snugly against your body at the leg opening to ensure the leakproof gusset technology can do its thing while getting in and out of the water.
Will it leak when I stand up or get out of the water?
Nope! We’ve worked hard to make sure that if your swimwear is fitted correctly, the waterproof barrier works to keep your absorbency layer from leaking.
How does the outer fabric compare to regular swimwear?
Our Modibodi pre-consumer recycled nylon and elastane is GRS (Global Recycle Standard) certified. That means it’s durable, chlorine-resistant and quick-drying. We also have a water repelling treatment on both sides of the outer fabric to help keep the gusset waterproof.
How does our period bathers control odour?
The absorbency layer in our swimwear has a special treatment applied that helps control odour.
How do period bathers compare to our leak-proof undies?
Our patent swimwear is completely different technology to our patented Modifier gusset (that’s the technology in our undies). The tech is in the innovative design. Our Modifier gussets contain layers of absorbing fabric, compared to our swimwear which has one innovative absorbency layer.
How long can I wear period bathers at the beach or pool without experiencing any leaks?
This will depend on how heavy your flow is. If you’re on day one of your period with a heavy flow, we suggest changing your period swimmers after a couple of hours or even wearing it as a backup with a tampon or menstrual cup.
If you have a lighter flow or are at the tail end of your menstruation, you can wear them all day. They’re tested to hold 10ml or 1-2 tampons without leaking, so you’ll just need to change once they have reached this capacity.
What’s a common myth about period swimmers?
Our Modibodi pre-consumer recycled nylon and elastane is GRS (Global Recycle Standard) certified. That means it’s durable, chlorine-resistant and quick-drying. We also have a water repelling treatment on both sides of the outer fabric to help keep the gusset waterproof.
Will people be able to tell I’m wearing period swimmers?
Nope. The lining that absorbs your period isn’t chunky or bulky like a pad, and the water-resistant layer prevents water from the pool or ocean from being absorbed, so it won’t grow in size once you’re in the water.
No one will be able to tell that this isn’t just your normal swimwear.
Ready to dive in?
Explore the range of Modibodi leak-proof swimwear and feel confident swimming no matter what time of the month it is. Made from pre-consumer recycled nylon, they are perfect for swimming with light periods, spotting or discharge, and a great alternative to disposable period care products.
