Wearing bikini during period

When I go swiming or to a pool party and I'm on my period should I go in the water or not? One time I did and I was wearing white two piece swim suit and my panties has a big blood spot but it was unexpected I didnt know I was going to be on my period at that time but should I go swiming if I'm on my period? And if so should I wear a pad, tampon, or just not go swiming?