Are you supposed to wear tampons while swimming?

No, you don't need to wear a tampon while swimming during menstruation.

You can use any of the following options:

• Tampons
• Soft tampons
• Menstrual sponges
• Menstrual cups
• Diaphragms
• Softcups

Menstrual cups are the best option as they're internal but safer so unlike tampons they can be worn even with light flow, and they can be worn for up to 12 hours - menstrual cups also don't absorb water, don't increase cramps, no string to show, and don't leak like tampons or sponges can.

It is a myth that your period stops in water.

Sit in a shallow bath during heavy flow and you will see that it doesn't - it can sometimes look like it stops because during light flow what little blood leaves your body will be diluted in the water, heavier flow and uterine tissue may be noticed and may leak down your leg once you get out the water. Although menstrual blood isn't dirty no one wants to swim in your blood.