The Problem
7 in 10 girls avoid being active on their periods, and swimming is a sport that is prevalently affected by this.
Many young swimmers, starting as early as 13, are encouraged to go on the pill to manage their periods around training. However, this can lead to negative side effects like weight gain, fatigue, and a sense of not feeling like themselves. Olympic swimmer Hannah Miley, for example, was advised by her doctor at the time to go on the pill when she first got her period. On top of this, many girls worry about leakage, bloating, and discomfort in a swimsuit, causing them to avoid swimming during their period because they haven’t been fully informed of their options.
The Artemis app provides a practical solution for young girls who avoid swimming whilst on their period. By breaking down the stigmas around menstruation
and offering young girls support, knowledge and a sense of belonging, Artemis empowers them to confidently swim whilst on their period.
Our Rationale
Artemis is more than just an app, it’s a movement designed to empower young girls to embrace their bodies, live fearlessly, and swim confidently whilst on their period. Named after the Greek goddess of the hunt and moon, and protector of women and girls, Artemis represents strength, independence, and the belief that nothing should hold a girl back from participating in the activties she loves.
For many young girls, menstruation is a source of confusion, embarrassment, and hesitation, particularly when it comes to swimming. Cultural taboos around periods often make it feel like a girl’s natural cycle is something to hide or be ashamed of, leading to missed opportunities for fun, fitness, and socialising. Swimming, an activity that promotes both physical and mental well-being, is often avoided during menstruation due to uncertainty about managing it and the social stigma surrounding it. The Artemis app addresses these challenges directly, offering a practical solution for young girls who want to swim without fear, discomfort, or shame.
Welcome to Artemis, the app designed to help young girls understand their menstrual health better, track their cycles, stay active and swim confidently.
The Artemis Launch Pack is a fun and engaging way to introduce young girls to the Artemis app. Distributed in schools during PHSE classes, the pack offers a supportive and informative overview that empowers girls to feel confident and supported, while making the topic of swimming on your period both exciting and approachable.
