Grommets are “tiny plastic tubes inserted into your child’s ear drum in a short operation.” Children have grommets put in because they suffer from frequent ear infections or have glue ear that won’t clear up. The insertion of grommets allows airflow into the middle ear reducing the fluid build up which reduces the chances of ear infections or glue ear. This is a common problem in young children with most children needing grommets for about 6-18 months. This is normally enough time for their Eustachian tubes to grow to a sufficient size to work naturally. 1
Your doctor will recommend the kind of ear protection your child will need in the water when swimming. Once you have been given the all clear from your doctor your child can commence swimming.
At State Swim, we have many young children with grommets who swim with us and our swim shop stocks a number of products for children with grommets including ear putty, earplugs, swimming caps and ‘ear wraps.’ You have more than likely been shown by your doctor how to use these products. However, if you are unsure of how to fit any of these items one of Our Team Members will be happy to assist.