4 Popular Period Myths—Busted!
Menstruation is a sensitive subject, because many still see it as taboo. Even today’s modern culture, when commercials of tampons and menstrual pads are freely shown on mainstream TV, there’s still a whole lot of embarrassment surrounding women’s menstrual cycle. Because of this, many women have grown up with grave misconceptions about their menstrual cycle and the things it does—and does not do to the body.
Here are some period myths we often hear on a regular basis that does not form any part of the truth about your menstrual cycle.
- You can’t get pregnant on your period
Although uncommon, pregnancy can happen even when on your period. Your menstrual cycle can be unpredictable, and ovulation may happen, before, during or after the bleeding, especially if you have irregular cycle—not to mention that a sperm can live up to five days in a woman’s reproductive organ. The best way to avoid unplanned pregnancy is to use a form of contraceptive even during your period.
- PMS is just all mental symptoms
Those cravings and mood swings you feel before your period arrives are totally normal. 50 to 70 percent of women experience physical and emotional symptoms of PMS five days before their period begins. But apart from mood swings and cravings, symptoms can also range from bloating, feeling of anxiety, changes in appetite, dizziness, tenderness of breasts, and/or pain in the lower abdomen. All these physical and mental symptoms are due to hormonal changes that occur days before your period starts.
- The period stops when you get into the water
Do not fall into this myth, and get yourself in an embarrassing situation. Your period does not stop or slow down when you’re in the water. It just may not flow outside your body because of the water’s counter pressure. When you’re in the bathtub, your period does not stop—the same thing happens when you’re in a pool. The best you can do is to use a menstrual cup or a tampon when you know you’ll be going swimming.
- Women should not take a bath while on their period
Perhaps, this was true during the time when showers did not exist yet and families share a tub of water. However, bathing and showering is totally safe during a period, just make sure to clean the tub after draining the water if you opt for a relaxing bath. Showering, washing your hair and bathing do not affect your flow; they just help you to stay clean and feel fresh during your uncomfortable days.
Just because you have your period, it doesn’t mean that you need to stop your life. You can still continue doing your routine, including exercising, taking a bath and having sex, as long as you stay safe and clean all the time.
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