Breaking the Cycle: 10 Menstrual Myths You Need to Stop Believing
Menstruation is one of the most natural, essential processes in the body, yet so many myths cloud our understanding of it. These misconceptions can influence how we approach our cycles, our self-care, and even our health. Let’s clarify some of the most persistent myths about menstruation with straightforward facts grounded in science.
1. Myth: Periods Make You "Unclean"
The belief that menstruating people are "unclean" is an outdated notion rooted in ancient cultural and religious misconceptions. Menstrual blood is not impure; it's simply blood, uterine lining, and natural fluids that support reproductive health. Viewing menstruation as “dirty” only perpetuates stigma and shame. In reality, this monthly cycle is a powerful sign of the body’s health and resilience, and it’s time we normalise it as such.
2. Myth: Avoid Certain Foods During Your Period
While some may find it helpful to skip caffeine or salty foods to reduce bloating, there’s no scientific reason to avoid specific foods entirely. On the contrary, foods high in iron (like leafy greens), magnesium (like nuts and seeds), and antioxidants (like berries) can be helpful during menstruation. It’s less about strict rules and more about nourishing the body to help it through this natural process.
3. Myth: Menstrual Health Only Matters in Reproductive Years
Menstrual health is relevant at every stage of life, even beyond menopause. After menopause, hormonal shifts may still affect overall health, and irregular bleeding could signal a health issue that deserves attention. Menstrual history and patterns can provide valuable insights into reproductive and hormonal health across a lifetime.
4. Myth: It’s Normal for Periods to Be Extremely Heavy
While it’s common for menstrual flow to vary, excessively heavy periods shouldn’t be ignored. Bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon in less than an hour or lasts longer than seven days may indicate a condition like fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or even a hormonal imbalance. If heavy bleeding is a regular issue, speaking with a healthcare provider can help you explore treatment options to manage it more comfortably.
5. Myth: Painful Periods Are Just a Part of Life
While it’s common to experience some discomfort during menstruation, severe or debilitating pain isn’t normal. Conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and adenomyosis can cause extreme discomfort, and leaving these untreated can impact quality of life. If your period pain disrupts daily activities, consult a healthcare provider; treatments and interventions are available that can help you feel better.
6. Myth: Exercise Should Be Avoided During Menstruation
Far from being harmful, exercise can actually be beneficial during menstruation. Physical activity, even a light workout or gentle yoga, can help alleviate cramps by releasing endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. Gentle exercise can also help with bloating and improve mood, making the period experience more manageable.
7. Myth: All Menstrual Cycles Are the Same
Cycle length, flow, and symptoms vary widely among individuals. Cycles ranging from 21 to 35 days are considered normal, and even slight changes month-to-month are typical. Stress, diet, lifestyle, and age can all influence cycle patterns. Tracking your own cycle is a great way to get in tune with your body and recognise any changes that may signal something worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
8. Myth: Periods Are Only Relevant to Reproduction
Menstruation is indeed linked to reproduction, but it also offers insights into overall hormonal health. Irregular periods, skipped cycles, and unusual symptoms can signal hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or other health issues. By paying attention to cycle changes, you gain an understanding of your body’s broader health dynamics.
9. Myth: Tampons and Pads Are the Only Options
Traditional products like pads and tampons have been around for years, but today’s menstrual products include choices that are more eco-friendly and comfortable. Period underwear, for example, has become a favorite because it’s discreet, reusable, and highly absorbent. Unlike tampons or pads, period underwear doesn’t require frequent changes and is designed to feel like regular underwear, allowing you to stay active and confident without interruptions. This and other options, like menstrual cups and reusable pads, offer sustainable and effective alternatives to single-use products.
10. Myth: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period
While the chances are lower, pregnancy during menstruation is still possible. Sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to five days, meaning if you ovulate shortly after your period, conception is possible. If you’re not planning on conceiving, using contraception consistently is essential, regardless of the timing in your cycle.
Sources:
https://www.businessinsider.com/myths-about-menstruation-periods-2020-8
https://maxinhealth.com/debunking-period-myths-with-science/
https://fitinsider.in/18-common-myths-about-periods/