The Best Period Swimwear for Different Body Types: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Ever found yourself sitting poolside while everyone else splashes around, just because you got your period? You're definitely not alone. As a former NCAA Division I swimmer, I remember the constant anxiety of training and competing during my period all too well. The fear of leaks was a huge distraction.

The great news is that modern period swimwear offers a solution that traditional products simply can't match in the water. Unlike tampons or pads, which have their limitations, today's period swimwear can absorb between 1-3 tampons' worth of menstrual fluid (5-15ml) discreetly and effectively.

Period swimwear works just like period underwear, using advanced liquid-locking technology. Multiple, ultra-thin layers are built right into the fabric to absorb and lock away menstrual fluid securely. You can find these period-friendly options in one-pieces, bikinis, and tankinis to suit your personal style. Better yet, these swimsuits are reusable, making them a smart and eco-friendly choice.

But here's what really matters: finding flattering period swimwear isn't just about absorbency. It's about feeling confident and comfortable in your own body. Whether you're pear-shaped, apple-shaped, athletic, hourglass, or plus-sized, there's a style that will work beautifully for your unique shape.

Ready to find your perfect fit? Let's dive into the best period swimwear options for every body type so you can enjoy worry-free swimming no matter what time of the month it is.

Shopping for swimwear can feel overwhelming when you have a pear-shaped figure. Add in the need for period protection, and it might seem even more complicated.

If you have a pear-shaped body, you'll typically recognize this description: a smaller or medium bust, narrow shoulders, and a well-defined waist, with fuller hips and thighs. Essentially, your upper body is narrower compared to your hips.

But here's what's so great about today's period swimwear: you can find styles that not only complement your natural shape but also provide reliable, leak-free protection. No more choosing between feeling confident and staying secure.

Best period swimwear styles for a pear-shaped body

For a pear-shaped body, the key is to enhance your upper body while providing balanced coverage for your fuller lower half. This creates a beautiful silhouette that flatters your figure and keeps you secure.

Top styles that balance your proportions:

• Halter tops and one-shoulder designs: These draw attention upward, creating the illusion of broader shoulders to balance your hips.

• Ruffled or embellished tops: Details like ruffles and bright patterns add volume to your bust, naturally drawing the eye upward.

• Bralette and underwire tops: These provide structure and lift, enhancing your bust area while offering great support.

Bottom styles that flatter and protect:

• High-waisted period swim bottoms: This style is a game-changer. It defines your waist (your narrowest point) and creates a gorgeous hourglass shape.

• Full coverage bottoms with ruching: These smooth your curves without adding bulk, offering a sleek and stylish look.

• Swim skirts and swim dresses: These offer a feminine look that skims over the hips and thighs gracefully.

One-piece period swimwear can also work wonderfully, especially designs with strategic color blocking or V-necklines that elongate the torso.

Pear-shaped body absorbency recommendations

Most quality period swimwear holds between 1-3 tampons' worth of fluid, making it ideal for light to moderate flow days. For pear shapes, here's what to consider:

1. Mix and match separates: This is my top recommendation. It allows you to get the perfect fit for your top and bottom, which is crucial for pear shapes.

2. High-waisted options with a full gusset: These provide expanded coverage, ensuring the absorbent material is right where you need it.

3. Tankini combinations: These offer the flexibility of a two-piece with the coverage and security of a one-piece.

For heavier flow days, you can always pair your period swimwear with a menstrual cup for extra protection and complete peace of mind.

Fit and comfort tips for a pear-shaped body

Getting the fit right is key to both protection and comfort.

Sizing strategy: Don't be afraid to size up in bottoms while keeping your regular size for tops. Always check the brand's size chart, measuring your bust, waist, and hips.

Color and pattern techniques:

• Opt for darker, solid colors on the bottom and lighter shades or prints on top. This classic trick creates a wonderfully balanced silhouette.

• Vertical lines can create a slimming, elongating effect.

Features to look for: Look for adjustable straps, waist-defining details like wrap styles, and V-necks or sweetheart necklines that draw the eye upward.

Styles to avoid: Steer clear of string bikinis or low-rise bottoms that can cut into hips and thighs uncomfortably. Also, be cautious with boy shorts or busy patterns on the bottom, as they can sometimes add visual width.

If you have an apple-shaped body, you tend to carry weight in your midsection and upper body, often with a fuller bust, broader shoulders, and narrower hips. The goal is to find flattering period swimwear that provides great support and creates more waist definition.

Best period swimwear styles for an apple-shaped body

For apple shapes, creating an hourglass illusion while supporting your midsection and bust is the main focus. Here are styles that do both beautifully:

One-piece options that enhance your shape:

• One-pieces with tummy control panels are fantastic for smoothing the midsection while providing support for a fuller bust.

• Color-block swimsuits with darker side panels create a powerful visual hourglass effect.

• Empire waistline designs draw focus just below the bust, creating a high, defined waistline.

Two-piece combinations for flexibility:

• High-waisted period swim bottoms with control panels smooth your silhouette and offer comfortable compression.

• Tankinis with ruching or gathering across the middle cleverly camouflage any fullness while keeping you secure.

• Supportive V-neck tops elongate your torso and provide the lift you need.

Apple-shaped body absorbency recommendations

Most quality period swimwear holds 1-3 tampons' worth of menstrual flow. For apple shapes, focus on suits with full-coverage gussets and double-layer construction, often featuring inner power mesh panels that both shape and protect.

Empire waist tankinis are an excellent choice, offering a great balance of coverage, convenience, and confidence.

Fit and comfort tips for an apple-shaped body

Proper fit is especially important for apple-shaped bodies, where support is paramount.

Supportive bust features: Since apple shapes often have fuller busts, look for underwire construction, molded cups, and wide, adjustable straps. These features provide essential lift and support.

Tummy control elements: The key to flattering period swimwear for apple shapes lies in supportive midsection features like tummy control panels made from a firm yet flexible fabric.

Color and pattern strategies: Use diagonal lines, dark side panels, and vertical stripes to create waist definition and a longer, leaner look.

Styles to avoid: Skip string bikinis, horizontal stripes across the midsection, and low-rise bottoms, as they tend to work against your shape.

If you have an athletic build, your swimwear needs to work as hard as you do. Characterized by a straighter frame with broader shoulders and defined muscle tone, your body requires period swimwear that offers unrestricted movement and ironclad protection.

Best period swimwear styles for an athletic build

For athletic builds, the goal is to add curves and definition while ensuring total freedom of movement. Your figure works beautifully with these styles:

• Racerback designs: My personal favorite for training. They offer excellent support and freedom of motion for your shoulders.

• Bold patterns and strategic cutouts: These are brilliant for creating visual curves and breaking up a straighter silhouette.

• High-rise bottoms: These add curves to a straighter frame and provide secure, high-coverage leak protection.

Athletic build absorbency recommendations

Athletes need reliable protection that can handle intense movement. Luckily, many performance-oriented period swimsuits can absorb between 2-3 tampons' worth of fluid.

The advanced four-layer technology in many suits, including Beautikini's, features a high-capacity absorbent layer and a completely waterproof layer, creating a dependable barrier. For heavy flow days or extra-long training sessions, pairing your suit with a menstrual cup is a pro-level move for ultimate security.

Fit and comfort tips for an athletic build

Your period swimwear should feel like a second skin: snug, but never restrictive.

Performance-focused support: The Beautikini Period Swimwear One-Piece is a perfect example of a great athletic fit. Its form-fitting, chlorine-resistant fabric provides compression without limiting movement, ensuring it holds up to rigorous training schedules.

Also, look for adjustable straps and wide waistbands on bottoms to ensure everything stays securely in place. Many suits designed for athletes also include UPF 50+ sun protection, a crucial feature for outdoor training.

With a proportionate bust and hips complemented by a narrower waist, the hourglass shape is often celebrated as a classic example of balanced proportions. If this is you, your main goal is to find period swimwear that honors your natural curves while providing secure protection.

Best period swimwear styles for an hourglass figure

Great news: you can pull off most period swimwear styles beautifully! Your focus isn't on creating balance—it's on highlighting the balance you already have.

One-piece options that work beautifully:

• Sweetheart neckline designs that flatter a fuller bust.

• Belted one-pieces that draw attention to and define your waist.

Two-piece combinations for mix-and-match fun:

• V-neck tops paired with high-waisted period bottoms to perfectly accentuate your shape.

• Halter or underwired tops that provide elegant support for your chest.

Hourglass figure absorbency recommendations

Your proportionate shape works well with most standard absorbency options, which typically hold 2-3 tampons' worth of fluid. Both one-piece and two-piece period swimwear will provide excellent protection for moderate flow days.

Fit and comfort tips for an hourglass figure

For you, fit is about enhancement, not correction. Your suit should feel snug but comfortable.

• Support and structure: Look for tops with underwire or molded cups and bottoms that sit at your natural waistline.

• Style strategies: Embrace matching sets, vertical stripes, or bold prints to highlight your balanced figure.

• What to avoid: Steer clear of styles with mismatched or uneven detailing that can throw off your natural proportions.

Inclusivity is at the heart of confidence, and every body deserves period protection that is both stylish and functional. It's fantastic to see brands now offering period swimwear in a wide range of sizes, ensuring more people can find a suit that makes them feel incredible.

Best plus-size period swim bottoms and suits

When it comes to plus-size period swimwear, you'll find several flattering styles that combine powerful protection with visual appeal:

• Full-coverage one-pieces with tummy control panels that smooth and showcase your curves.

• High-waisted bottoms with flexible waistbands that provide comfort and security.

• Racerback designs and swim dresses that offer extra support and modest coverage without sacrificing style.

Look for designs that incorporate flattering elements like ruching, strategic color blocking, and supportive structured tops. These details enhance your natural shape while providing discreet, powerful protection.

Absorbency needs for plus-size body types

The technology works the same way across all sizes, but plus-size options often feature expanded coverage areas in the gusset to ensure complete protection. Many quality plus-size period swim bottoms hold between 2-4 tampons' worth of flow, making them perfect for light to heavy days.

Fit and support tips for plus-size period swimwear

Proper fit is crucial. Your suit should feel snug but comfortable. Always measure your torso, bust, waist, and hips and compare them to the brand's sizing guide.

For the best support, choose plus-size period swimwear with built-in shelf bras, molded cups, and wide, adjustable straps that distribute weight evenly. These features, combined with the right absorbent technology, empower you to enjoy the water with total confidence.

Need a quick way to compare your options? Here’s a summary of the best period swimwear for different body types:

Remember, these are guidelines to help you start. Your unique proportions and personal preferences matter most when choosing the period swimwear that will make you feel your most confident and comfortable.