Celebrity diver Brinkley Davies has dived with sharks whilst on her period, to debunk the myth that you shouldn’t swim while menstruating and that period blood attracts sharks.
While you would probably want to avoid swimming with sharks in general, a shocking new image captures the 31-year-old from Australia just inches away from a shark allegedly during her time of the month.
Unlike the Hollywood film Jaws however, there is no bloody ending.
Davies - who is also a qualified marine biologist with many years experience of diving - said of the challenge: “In 2024, it’s surprising that many still believe you can’t dive or explore underwater on your period, and that it makes sharks more attracted to you. . . . As someone who’s spent a lifetime beneath the waves, I know the adventures you’d miss if you bought into these old stories, and long out-proven myths.”
If you’re still unconvinced and would like some science, shark biologist, Dr Barbara Wueringer from Sharks And Rays Australia, said: "Contrary to popular belief, swimming during your period will not increase your risk of being bitten by a shark.
“Studies have shown that as period blood consists of cervical mucus, vaginal secretions and endometrial tissue, it doesn’t attract sharks any more than any other bodily fluid.
“People often assume that sharks are immediately drawn to human blood in the water, but they can also detect and are likely more attracted to secretions made by fish and other ocean marine life."
It turns out that being able to swim while receiving a visit from Aunt Flo isn’t the only myth that needs busting.
According to new research conducted by period swimwear brand Modibodi, British women still believe various myths surrounding their period.
From not having sex on your period (29 percent), to exercise messing with your flow (13 percent) – 13 percent of those of period age admit that even though they’re ridiculous, they still think of these misconceptions when on their period.
Outside of myths, menstruators also feared trying period swimwear (28 percent), concerned they’d feel unhygienic (49 percent), or worried blood would seep down their leg after swimming (72 percent).
