Dear Jenn03,

The walls of the vagina hold a tampon in place, so it should stay put while swimming, exercising, or playing sports. Also, a tampon will prevent menstrual flow from leaking out. It's a good idea to change the tampon every four to six hours to prevent leakage. Another option for swimming is the menstrual cup, which "catches" menstrual flow before it leaves the vagina. The cup is shaped like a diaphragm, and it rests between the pubic bone and the cervix at the opening of the uterus.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.