Period Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction
From a young age, people are taught to keep their periods a secret, to not discuss them openly, and to avoid any mention of menstruation in public. Unfortunately, this taboo surrounding periods has led to many myths and misconceptions that have been perpetuated over time, leading to a lack of understanding and knowledge about menstrual health. As a result, people have often found themselves feeling anxious, embarrassed, or even ashamed about their periods.
It is important to recognise that menstruation is a natural process that is necessary for reproductive health, and it should not be a source of shame or embarrassment. By debunking the myths and misconceptions surrounding periods, we can help to remove the stigma associated with menstruation and promote better understanding and education about menstrual health. In this article, we will explore some of the most common period myths and provide accurate information to help women better understand their bodies and their menstrual cycles.
Myth 1: You Can’t Get Pregnant on Your Period
This is a myth that has been around for a very long time – even longer than period products have been around. While it is true that the chances of getting pregnant during your period are relatively low, it is still possible. Sperm can survive in the female body for up to five days, which means that if you have sex towards the end of your period, you could still get pregnant. No matter what stage of your menstrual cycle you are, you should always use contraception if you are avoiding getting pregnant.
Myth 2: You Shouldn’t Exercise During Your Period
Another common myth about periods is that you shouldn’t exercise during your period. However, exercise can actually be beneficial during menstruation. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help to alleviate menstrual cramps and boost your mood. Exercising can also help to regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce the intensity and duration of your periods – who knew!
Myth 3: You Can’t Swim During Your Period
Another long-standing myth is the fact you cannot swim while on your period. The reality is that you can swim during your period. While it may be uncomfortable to wear a pad or tampon while swimming, there are other options available, such as menstrual cups, that are suitable for swimming – and swimming is a great form of exercise to alleviate cramps.
Myth 4: You Lose a Lot of Blood During Your Period
It is a common misconception that people lose a lot of blood during their period. The average amount of blood loss during a period is between 30 and 80 ml, which is equivalent to two to six tablespoons. However, some people may experience heavier bleeding, which could be a sign of an underlying health condition. If you experience very heavy bleeding or have concerns about your menstrual flow, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
Myth 5: Menstrual Blood is Dirty
There is a widespread belief that menstrual blood is dirty or impure. This is a myth that is steeped in cultural and religious beliefs, and there is no scientific evidence to support it whatsoever. Menstrual blood is a normal bodily fluid, just like urine or sweat, and is not inherently dirty or harmful. Anybody who shames someone for being on their period are uneducated and uninformed.
Myth 6: Irregular Periods are Always a Cause for Concern
Many people experience irregular periods at some point in their lives. While irregular periods can be a sign of an underlying health condition, they can also be caused by factors such as stress, weight fluctuations, and changes in medication. It’s important to track your menstrual cycle and talk to your doctor if you notice any significant changes – but don’t panic.
Myth 7: PMS is Just a Myth
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a real condition that affects many human being with a period. Symptoms of PMS can include mood swings, bloating, cramps, and fatigue, among others. While the exact cause of PMS is not fully understood, it is believed to be linked to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.
Myth 8: Tampons Can Get Lost Inside You
This is a myth that can cause a lot of anxiety – but we are here to debunk it for you. The reality is that tampons cannot get lost inside your body. They are designed with a string that you can use to remove them, and if you have trouble removing a tampon, you can always seek medical help. It is impossible for a tampon to get lost in a person.
There are so many myths and misconceptions surrounding periods that can lead to unnecessary confusion and anxiety. By separating fact from fiction, we can help to demystify menstruation and promote better menstrual health. Remember to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or period symptoms.
