Period Swimwear Keeps Disabled Athletes in the Pool

When Vanessa Ozols got her period, she used to sit out swimming practice, watching her teammates from the sidelines while feeling frustrated and left out.

The 20-year-old national-level Para swimmer lives with autism, an intellectual impairment, and a rare genetic disorder. Traditional period products like tampons caused pain and discomfort, making them impossible to use.

"On days when I've had my period, I just didn't feel very motivated to swim," Ozols told ABC Sport. For someone who feels most safe and accepted in the pool with her Para swimming squad, missing sessions meant losing precious time with the community that understood her.

She's far from alone in this struggle. New research from Victoria University shows a staggering 68% of disabled girls and women regularly skip sports because of their periods. The study surveyed 273 disabled athletes and uncovered barriers ranging from sensory issues with traditional products to physical challenges using them, plus anxiety about leakage and inaccessible changing facilities.

Only 12% of disabled women regularly participate in sports to begin with. These period-related barriers make an already difficult situation worse.

But solutions are emerging. When Ozols discovered period swimwear, everything changed. The specialized swimwear contains a waterproof layer that prevents leaks, fitting discreetly under regular swimming costumes.

"They have given me the power to be able to swim and not miss a single session," Ozols said. She even competed at state championships wearing the innovative garment.

The Ripple Effect

Swimming Australia developed inclusive swimwear guidelines in 2021 covering considerations for gender, disability, and religion. The guidelines clearly state that anyone can use period swimwear without needing approval from officials.

Sarah Greenaway, founder of period swimwear company Eltee Sydney, created her product after her own daughter dropped out of swimming. Her mission focuses on keeping girls healthy, active, and engaged in the sports they love.

Lead researcher Clare Hanlon believes this groundbreaking research opens doors for sporting organizations nationwide. Better communication between athletes and coaches, increased funding for period products, and accessible facilities can create welcoming environments where disabled athletes thrive.

The study found 61% of respondents didn't know how to discuss period needs with coaches. Simple conversations could solve problems that have kept talented athletes on the sidelines for years.

For Ozols, staying in the pool means more than athletic achievement. It's about friendship, belonging, and the mental and physical health benefits that come from regular participation. Her swimming squad has become her safe space, filled with people who understand and accept her completely.

Now she never has to choose between her period and her passion.