What to Wear in the Summer on Your Period

We are finally coming out of the cold, dreary darkness of an English winter hoping for some breezy sunny days. But in true British fashion we go from bleak cold days to stifling humidity in the blink of an eye.

Having your period in hot weather can be so uncomfortable, with sweating and chafing. Some people experience increased skin sensitivity during their period, which can be irritated by the heat.

Wearing shorts or short summer dresses can lead to worries about leaking and it being obvious due to less layers of clothing.

Disposable period protection with its plastic layers can feel hot and sticky, which can lead to irritation.

Here's our list of the best things to wear on your period in summer:

1. High-waisted bottoms
2. Loose fitting clothing
3. Period friendly swimwear
4. Lightweight fabrics
5. Team skirts and dresses with cycling shorts
6. Switch disposable pads for cotton or bamboo period pants

1. High-Waisted Bottoms

High-waisted shorts and skirts can provide extra coverage and support, especially if you experience bloating or discomfort. You will want to avoid any waistbands that cut your tummy in half, adding to your discomfort.

If you had a caesarean and your scar bothers you more around your period choose clothing and underwear that sit above the scar.

Cheeky high-waisted 'Fearless' period pants with mesh side will keep you cool.  Alternatively, look for coloured period pants which are similar to your skin tone and won't be seen under pale coloured summer clothing, such as Cheeky VPL free period pants which come in mocha, almond and black. Team with loose flowing skirts or baggy linen trousers to keep the temperature down.

2. Loose-Fitting Clothing

Flowing, loose fitting materials and clothing will allow for better airflow and to minimise discomfort or sweating. Loose clothing like dresses, skirts, roomy playsuits are all great period-friendly options in the warmer weather.

You should also stick to lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, which wick away sweat and dry quickly.

3. Period-Friendly Swimwear

If you plan to swim, sunbathe or play around in the pool during your period, you might feel more comfortable wearing a dark-coloured swimsuit.

Period-proof swimming costumes are designed to absorb menstrual blood, without the faff of using a tampon, pad or menstrual cup while out and about. Cheeky wipes have a full range of period swimwear products - 

Racer back period swimming costume - has a built in absorbent lining which repels liquid on the outside and absorbs period blood on the inside. Perfect for lighter days or medium flow days, will hold 1 to 2 tampons worth. On heavy flow days, it's great as a back up to a menstrual cup or tampon. Available in jade green.

Classic style period swimsuit with bust support - Made with treated nylon outer fabric which is water resistant and leak proof for lighter periods. Double adjustable straps means you'll have the perfect fit. Available in black or neon red.

Ruched period bikini - The high waisted ruched side detail adds a touch of elegance, making these bottoms a chic addition to your swimwear collection. They look just like regular swim bikini bottoms! Designed to be worn with any of your normal tops or pair with our matching bikini top - half price when bought together!

Ribbed Menstrual Bikini - Made with ribbed nylon outer fabric, it holds two tampons worth of menstrual blood, perfect for a light period. Co-ordinates with our Period Swimwear Crop Top

4. Light weight fabrics

Avoid heavy denims and thick fabrics, and look for linens and cottons to allow your body to breath over your period in summer heat and which can naturally help absorb moisture and keep you feeling cool. They can also easily be rinsed and dried quickly in case of leaks.

Choose bamboo period underwear and pads to keep you cooler too. Bamboos naturally antibacterial and antifungal material really promotes a healthy vulva.

5. Team skirts and dresses with cycling shorts

Most high street shops sell cotton cycling shorts in their basics range which work to avoid sweating, chafing, and to give you more confidence on your period. Gusty draughts won't ruin your confidence if you have a Marylin moment.

They will also help to keep reusable pads in place in your underwear.

6. Switch disposable pads for cotton or bamboo period pants

Single use pads are not only bad for the environment, they can make you hot and sweaty in warmer weather. Overheating can lead to skin irritation, heat rash and general discomfort.

Reusable menstrual underwear can keep you cooler and leak free. With layers of cotton or bamboo next to your skin, then additional absorbent layers backed with waterproof fabric from the front to back waistband you can feel secure.

They are much easier to use than people expect, just follow our washing and care guide.

How to Deal with Period Pain in Summer

Some factors associated with summer weather and activities can increase discomfort. Hot weather can lead to dehydration, sweat, heat rashes, and irritability.

Here are a number of ways you can deal with period pain in the summer -

1. Stay hydrated during the summer months - drink lots of cold water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen cramps
2. Take cool showers & use cooling packs on your belly - this cooling sensation can help lower your body temperature and provide relief from menstrual discomfort
3. Avoid too much alcohol and caffeine - both of these can exacerbate dehydration and inflammation, making period pain worse#
4. Choose reusable period pants and pads to keep you feeling cooler in hot weather

If you found this blog useful you may like to read more here :

Warm weather and keeping your Cheeky Wipes fresh

Period pants for heavy periods: The lowdown

When can I wear period pants?

How do I know when my period pants are full?

If you would like more information, please email the team or find us on the website chat function. We all use the products ourselves and LOVE to chat pee poo and periods. Nothing is TMI and we all love to overshare based on our own experiences.

About the Author: Kirstin on our customer services team loves spending her days helping customers with their reusable period product needs and advising cloth nappy using families. Kirstin lives with her three teenagers and loves walking, cycling and sea swimming year round in our beautiful bay.