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10 Common Myths About Periods You Shouldn’t Believe In

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12th Feb 2021




Periods, also called menstruation, is a natural process of the female reproductive system during which the inner lining of the uterus sheds. Due to the fact that a woman’s body wasn’t well-studied for centuries, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about its functions and processes. 

It is essential to understand that these misconceptions can affect your understanding of periods and make you feel worse. In this article, we have gathered 10 common myths about periods you shouldn’t believe in.

1. Pain during periods is normal

Most women of childbearing age experience mild pelvic pain and discomfort before and during periods. This pain usually lasts for a day or two and can be easily reduced with the help of pain medications. 

But some women experience exhausting cramps and pain that start before periods and can last for 3-4 days. If you experience these symptoms, it is better to visit a gynecology center since they can be caused by a certain underlying condition that may require treatment.

2. You can’t take a bath during periods

Some people think that it is better to avoid taking a bath during periods because water can penetrate the vagina and uterus and cause inflammation. But the reality is that water can’t spread so far and irritate vaginal and uterine tissues. On the contrary, it is recommended to take a warm bath during periods since it can heal to ease cramping. 

3. Missed periods always mean pregnancy

If you have skipped a period or two, it doesn’t always mean that you are pregnant. There are a lot of factors that can affect your menstrual cycle and make your periods disappear. For example, if you are stressed and have lost weight, your body may stop periods because of unsuitable circumstances for getting pregnant.

Additionally, there are some health issues that can cause missed periods as well. Women with hormonal imbalance and hormone-related conditions may experience missed periods, fertility issues, and many other bothersome symptoms. 

4. PMS is a fiction

There is a common misbelief that women pretend that they feel bad before and during periods. But the reality is that premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects a woman's emotions, physical health, and behavior before periods. Even though the exact cause of PMS is not clear, it likely involves changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle.

5. Normal periods last for 3 days

Indeed, many women have periods that last for three days and they can be deemed normal for them. But it is essential to understand that every woman is unique and has her own menstrual cycle

Some women have periods that last for five days while the others can menstruate for a weak. However, if menstruation lasts more than a week, it can be a sign of some disorder that may require medical attention.

6. Hormonal contraception stops periods forever

Some people think that hormonal contraception can stop periods forever and even cause infertility. Indeed, some types of birth control pills can make periods disappear or make them extremely light. But the effect disappears when you stop taking pills and the menstrual cycle normalizes. Other types of hormonal contraception can ease pain during periods and make them ligter.

7. Heavy blood flow during periods can cause death from blood loss

Even if you have heavy periods that last for a few days, you can’t lose enough blood to die. But you should know that heavy bleeding during periods can contribute to anemia. Additionally, there are a lot of conditions that can make your periods heavy. That’s why it is better to visit a gynecologist. 

8. Sex during periods is not recommended

Many people think that sex during periods is ridiculous, wrong, and even harmful. But the reality is that sexual intercourse and orgasm can relieve pain during periods and ease symptoms of PMS.

An orgasm boosts the production of endorphins, chemicals that improve your mood and have pain-relieving properties. That’s why you shouldn’t refuse to have sex during your periods if you want. 

9. You can’t exercise during periods

As mentioned above, endorphins can significantly improve your well-being during periods. But you should know that not only sex can increase their production. Mild physical activity like yoga or walking can also help you relieve severe pain during periods. 

10. It is impossible to get pregnant during periods

Most people think that it is impossible to get pregnant during periods and become extremely surprised by pregnancy. The reality is that the fertilization occurs during ovulation that usually begins in a weak or so after periods.

If periods are late, or ovulation starts earlier, they can coincide with each other and you can easily get pregnant. That’s why it is better to use condoms even during periods if you don’t plan to conceive. 

The bottom line

It is important to understand that the female reproductive system requires a lot of attention. If you have noticed some changes in your menstrual cycle, it is better to visit a  gynecologist for a thorough diagnosis and treatment.