Period Myths And Facts: 10 Menstrual Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

We have all come across different myths associated with periods, some are annoying and few are hilarious. But back when you were young they seemed to be scary to you. Social and cultural norms create bizarre trends which are followed by many.

Here Are 10 Myths About Menstruation

So mommies, don’t believe them yourselves and also don’t allow your children to carry on perpetuating these myths.

#1. Not Allowed To Enter The Kitchen

Yes, you read it right, 3 days off from all kitchen duties and responsibilities, all you can do is grab some dark chocolate and take a rest! Now, this is one myth I wouldn’t want to bust!! According to Hindu traditions, a girl is considered unclean during her menstruation hence she is not allowed to enter the kitchen. In fact, ladies are not allowed to visit temples, prayer rooms or even touch babies.  Another myth related to this is not letting menstruating women touch the pickle jar as it may get spoiled.

Fact: 

All these rules were made so that girls can get some physical rest as blood loss is high and can result in weakness.

Also Read: Tips To Deal With Your Teen’s Puberty Fears

#2. You Can't Pee While Wearing A Tampon

Many young girls are naive and they believe that they pee from the vagina itself. Thus they think the cannot pee while wearing a tampon. But, these are two different holes and you bleed from your vagina and it’s physically not possible to pee out of it.

Fact: 

It’s perfectly fine to pee while having a tampon inside of you.

#3. Losing A Tampon Inside Your Vagina

Nothing, I repeat NOTHING – can get lost in your vagina. This is because the end part of the vagina is cervix and tampon can’t reach beyond that and the vagina is just 3 to 4 inches long. Young girls usually talk amongst themselves and can have misconceptions regarding this – so please be honest and open with your daughter.

Fact: 

Yup, Nothing can get lost there!!

Also read: Are Tampons Safe For Your Daughter?

#4. PMS Pre-Menstrual Syndrome Is Overhyped

The annoying mood swings and odd cravings before periods are totally normal and natural. Women come across emotional and physical symptoms before menstruating – and there is nothing wrong with this. Your symptoms can range from fatigue, mood swings, bloating, appetite changes, tension, and dizziness. Speak to your daughter about these things and while PMS can’t be an excuse for inappropriate and disobedient behaviour on her part – try to let her know what is acceptable and what is not.

Fact: 

PMS has been recognized as a serious disorder.

#5. Never Delay A Period

Some women want to skip their periods for different health reasons like excessive blood loss, painful cramps, and fatigue. Some girls too want to delay their periods because they feel it will interfere with their sports activities or exams. Consult a doctor for the best advice, but delaying periods for important exams once in a blue moon is considered ok.

Fact: 

While not very healthy in the long run, it is possible to delay periods.

Also Read: Delayed Puberty-Is Your Daughter At Risk?

#6. No Sex During Period

If you and your partner feel comfortable having sex during periods, then it’s totally your ball game. During menstruation due to the fluctuation of hormones, there is a rise in the blood flow and it can make women highly aroused as well. While the whole affair itself can be quite messy – whatever floats your boat!!

Fact:

No harm in doing the dirty – if you like it that way! 

#7. Periods Stop When You Are Inside The Pool

How we wish this one was true! LOL!!! But this is undoubtedly a myth. The bleeding doesn’t totally stop when you are in the pool, it gets restricted from flowing outside the vagina because of the water pressure. If you are planning to hit the pool, opt for a tampon or menstrual cup. However, it is common courtesy to avoid public pools during menstruation.

Fact: 

A female swimmer's dream come true! But it doesn’t stop! 

#8. Take Rest During The Period And Avoid Exercise

If you feel like exercising and relaxing, go for it. It is also a great way to reduce PMS symptoms and painful cramps. But it’s a big myth that you just can’t pick up a pair of dumbells! You go, girl!!

Fact: 

Any kind of exercise is fine if you’re feeling up to it.

#9. Virgins Should Avoid Tampons

This is totally a myth, the use of tampons totally depends on an individual’s comfort level. It won’t take away your virginity. More than a tampon – horse riding can break your hymen. This is just an old wives tale and if your daughter prefers tampons over pads – let her choose.

Fact: 

Anyone with a vagina can use a tampon!!

#10. Avoid Swimming In The Ocean During Periods Else Sharks Will Attack You

This is the most bizarre myth. There is no scientific evidence that sharks will smell your blood in the big wide ocean and attack you. This myth is there because dead carcasses and blood are used to bait sharks when tourists like to do deep sea diving in a cage.

Conclusion 

Educating ourselves and others on the truth about menstruation is crucial for promoting menstrual health and breaking down the stigma that surrounds it. 

By dispelling these myths, we can help create a more informed and supportive society for women. 

It is also important to recognize that periods can be a source of discomfort and inconvenience for many people and providing access to menstrual products and resources can help alleviate some of the challenges associated with menstruation.

 Let's work towards creating a world where menstruation is normalized and celebrated as a natural part of the human experience.

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