You’re planning a relaxing sauna session but wonder if wearing a tampon is safe. The last thing you want is discomfort or health concerns while trying to unwind. 

In this post, we’ll explore whether wearing a tampon in a sauna is advisable and share tips for staying comfortable and safe. 

• Wearing a tampon in a sauna is generally safe but requires more frequent changes due to increased menstrual flow.
• Choose tampons made from natural fibers to reduce irritation and discomfort in the sauna.
• Saunas can help relieve menstrual cramps, but it’s crucial to stay hydrated and listen to your body to avoid dehydration.
• You can use a tampon in a hot tub, but remember to change it immediately after to prevent reduced effectiveness and potential bacterial growth.
• Consider alternative menstrual products like menstrual cups for added comfort and protection during sauna or hot tub use.

A tampon is a small, soft product made from absorbent materials like cotton or rayon, designed to be worn inside the body during your period. 

It works by gently absorbing menstrual flow, offering a comfortable and discreet way to manage your period. 

Unlike pads, which you wear outside your body, tampons allow you to move freely without worrying about bulkiness.

They’ve been around since the 1930s and are a go-to choice for many. If stored correctly, they can last up to five years.

In fact, approximately 100 million women globally use tampons, with about 34.1 million women in the U.S. using them in 2020, making them a widely popular menstrual product. 

If stored correctly, they can last up to five years.

However, despite the large potential for public health concern, very little research has been done to measure chemicals in tampons, says Jenni A. Shearston , a postdoctoral scholar at the University. 

This highlights the ongoing need for further research into the materials used in tampons and their potential effects on health. 

Opting for tampons made from natural fibers, like cotton and rayon, which help absorb fluid efficiently and minimize irritation, with minimal additives can reduce the risk of irritation. 

Alternatives like menstrual cups or period panties—absorbent, reusable underwear designed to keep you dry and leak-proof—can also provide additional comfort and protection in the sauna. 

Always listen to your body, and if discomfort arises, consider switching to a different menstrual product or exiting the sauna.

If tampons aren’t your thing, you might explore alternatives like menstrual cups, pads, or period underwear. 

Tampons are loved for their convenience and how they fit seamlessly into an active lifestyle.

"We typically recommend that you change your tampon every four to six hours, though many people will change them more frequently if they're experiencing a heavy flow," says Dr. Melisa Holmes, doctor, educator, author, and co-founder of Girlology. 

Wearing a tampon in a sauna is generally safe, but there are some considerations to keep in mind.

The heat in the sauna may increase menstrual flow, so it’s important to use a fresh tampon and change it more frequently than usual to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Opting for tampons made from natural fibers, like cotton and rayon, which help absorb fluid efficiently and minimize irritation, with minimal additives can reduce the risk of irritation. 

Alternatives like menstrual cups or period panties—absorbent, reusable underwear designed to keep you dry and leak-proof —can also provide additional comfort and protection in the sauna. 

Always listen to your body, and if discomfort arises, consider switching to a different menstrual product or exiting the sauna.

Yes, it is generally safe to use saunas during your period, but there are important considerations. 

The heat from a sauna can help relax muscles and alleviate menstrual cramps, offering relief from discomfort. 

The warmth can also have a calming effect on the body, reducing anxiety and mood swings, which many find helpful during their period.

Additionally, the sauna’s heat can influence the menstrual cycle by relaxing the pelvic floor and improving circulation.

Research shows that sauna exposure causes acute changes in hormone levels, such as increased production of growth hormone and prolactin, which can help relax the body further and ease menstrual discomfort. 

This hormonal response is often stronger in women, with regular sauna use leading to more stabilized effects, although some women may notice mild changes in their cycle, particularly if they’re new to saunas.

However, it's important to stay hydrated, as saunas can lead to dehydration due to increased sweating and menstrual flow.

Drinking plenty of water before and after your sauna session, and keeping your time in the sauna limited, is key.

A warm shower afterward can also help your body cool down and cleanse away sweat, leaving you refreshed. 

If you start feeling dizzy or uncomfortable, it's best to exit the sauna immediately. Using  menstrual cups  , tampons, or period-proof swimwear can provide extra protection. 

Overall, saunas can offer great relief during your period when used with the right precautions.

Yes, you can go in a hot tub with a tampon. Tampons are designed for water activities, including hot tubs, and they provide effective protection by absorbing menstrual blood. 

However, it’s essential to change your tampon immediately after leaving the hot tub, as it can absorb water, reducing its effectiveness and potentially introducing bacteria. 

For added comfort and to avoid any leakage, make sure the tampon is the right absorbency for your flow, and securely tuck in the string. 

"When it comes to using a menstrual cup in a sauna, the answer is yes, you can! Menstrual cups are flexible, medical-grade silicone devices that collect menstrual flow, offering a comfortable, leak-proof alternative to tampons. 

They actually perform well in the heat of a sauna compared to tampons. Unlike tampons, which can shift or expand with the heat, menstrual cups stay securely in place and don’t absorb moisture from  sweating  . 

Many people find menstrual cups more comfortable in hot environments since they’re designed to fit snugly without the risk of drying out or causing irritation. 

Plus, menstrual cups are much more sustainable than tampons, making them a better choice for the environment. Since they form a seal inside, menstrual cups tend to prevent leaks better, even in the sauna." 

According to the AWHS data, 19% of U.S. participants use menstrual cups, though they're not as commonly used as pads and tampons. 

This shows a growing shift toward using menstrual cups for comfort and protection. Overall, menstrual cups offer better protection and convenience in a sauna compared to tampons."