Published May 27, 2025 | Diving, Scuba Center Asia

Can I scuba dive with a Menstrual cup?

happy scuba girl

Managing your period while scuba diving has become much simpler in recent years. In fact, menstrual cups have become the go-to solution for many female divers, offering comfort and reliability that traditional period products can’t match underwater. Yep, we’re talking about you, tampon!
Whether you’re planning a dive holiday or heading out for your regular weekend dives, using a menstrual cup can transform your diving experience.

What is a menstrual cup?

Menstrual cups are flexible silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Unlike tampons or pads, they don’t absorb, meaning they last longer and reduce the risk of leaks.

Is it safe to dive during your period?

The answer is simply “Yes!”. There have been myths circling for decades about sharks being attracted to your blood, and these have been scientifically disproven. The real focus should be on choosing the right period management solution for your comfort and safety underwater.

Understanding Menstrual Cups for Scuba Diving

Menstrual cups are particularly well-suited for scuba diving because they create a reliable vacuum seal that remains stable regardless of depth or pressure changes. Unlike tampons, which can absorb water and become uncomfortable, menstrual cups maintain their effectiveness throughout your dive. The medical-grade silicone used in most cups is completely safe for underwater use, and they can be worn for up to 12 hours, perfect for those long dive days with multiple tanks.

  • Longer wear time (up to 12 hours) – perfect for multiple dive days
  • Creates a reliable vacuum seal that works at all depths
  • No absorption issues unlike tampons
  • Eco-friendly. They are reusable and sustainable, great for the planet and perfect for island life.
  • Cost-effective for frequent divers
  • No string visibility concerns in wetsuits

girls doing the beginner padi course

Why Water Pressure Doesn’t Impact Your Menstrual Cup

For beginner divers, it’s totally normal to wonder whether the pressure changes at depth might affect a menstrual cup.

After all, dive theory teaches us that gas-filled spaces compress as we descend. But here’s the key: menstrual cups aren’t gas-filled, they’re made of soft, flexible silicone and sit securely inside the body, creating a gentle seal. Because there’s no air inside the cup, water pressure has no effect on its function or comfort. So whether you’re doing your very first Open Water course or logging your first fun dives, you can trust that your menstrual cup will stay in place and perform just as well underwater as it does on land.

Essential preparation for diving with a Menstrual Cup

Proper preparation is key to a comfortable diving experience. Insert your cup properly 1-2 hours before diving to ensure it’s correctly positioned and sealed. Always use the bathroom before suiting up, and pack essential cleaning supplies in a dry bag for surface intervals. During your surface interval, you likely won’t need to empty your cup thanks to its 12-hour wear time, but it’s good practice to have supplies ready just in case.

Selecting the perfect cup for diving

When choosing a menstrual cup for diving, look for one made from high-quality medical-grade silicone with a firm rim for a reliable seal. The size should be appropriate for your body, and the capacity should be sufficient for long dive days.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

One cup can replace years of disposable products, significantly reducing plastic waste that might otherwise end up in our oceans. This sustainable choice not only benefits the marine environment but also makes economic sense for frequent divers.

Professional safety considerations

scuba girls on the boat after diving

Diving during your monthly cycle requires the same attention to your well-being as any other dive day. Your body sends clear signals – from energy dips to mild discomfort – and these shouldn’t be ignored.

No two divers face identical challenges or comfort zones. Through years of working with female divers, we’ve seen countless personal approaches to managing periods underwater. Some prefer morning dives when energy peaks, others adjust their dive profiles, and many simply dive as normal. The key is discovering what feels right for you.

At Scuba Center Asia, we believe nothing should stand between you and your dive dreams, least of all your period. Menstrual cups are a game-changer for many women in the dive community: safe, sustainable, and seriously convenient. So go ahead. Pop that cup in, zip up your wetsuit, and get ready to meet the mantas. Period or not, this is where legends are made.

Periods shouldn’t hold you back from chasing bubbles and making memories underwater. Dive on, confident and carefree. Got more questions about diving as a woman or prepping for your next trip? Chat with our team or check out our blog for more dive tips from female pros. reach out to us. We look forward to helping you create memories and stories that last a lifetime.

Happy diving everyone

Scuba Center Asia Lembongan

Mainstreet Mushroom Beach

Nusa Lembongan, Bali

WA booking number: +6282247484788