Period Misconceptions Backed By Scientific Research

The menstrual period has been with us since we were created. It's a natural process, but for some reason, there have been so many myths and misconceptions. The primary cause of this has been an absence of knowledge, superstitions, and cultural beliefs. These myths have created confusion and made it harder for women to talk about it publicly without feeling shameful. But the young girls have finally taken the matter into their own hands and want to find the facts behind them. They have disregarded those myths if there is no scientific reason behind them. In this article, we will also debunk some myths that have been living in our heads, rent-free for centuries.

Myth: No physical activity while on periods

We all have heard this in our lives, not from one but from almost every older lady. We have been advised to rest while suffering the pain in total silence. The myth about doing no physical activity doesn't bear any scientific reason. It is, in fact, said that doing some physical activity during your period will smoothen your blood flow, minimize your period cramps, alleviate your mood, and help you feel better. Studies prove that light exercise can decrease your PMS symptoms over time.

Myth: No shower during your periods

If we talk about the most illogical and disgusting myth, it is this one. The old wife's tales about no showering while you are on your period still exist today. But thankfully, girls now understand there's no tangible reason behind it. Why compromise on personal hygiene when this process is natural and pure? A warm shower does wonders for your mood and flow.

Myth: PMS is an exaggerated made-up thing by a woman

How amazing it will be if, for just one month, we can let the male population go through PMS and period. This gender-based discriminative myth they created to shun the woman for being hit by PMS is bizarre. Every woman goes through PMS, just on a different schedule. Some go through the symptoms a week before, while others may feel them just a few days earlier. They occur because of all the hormonal changes in your body that you can't see, and thus end up feeling all sorts of emotions. Some women go through physical symptoms of PMS, like bloating, fatigue, or headaches.

Myth: Women are impure while on their periods

This is another example of the discrimination against women in older times. When their periods would arrive, they would be considered impure and forced to be isolated in a room. This was a total cultural misconception that affected hundreds of women's self-esteem. They wouldn't be allowed to participate in daily chores like bread-making, cooking, touching plants, and much more. It's about time we become more inclusive and not label anyone going through an entirely natural process like this.

Myth: Cold liquids or ice cream affect period flow

We found this myth hilarious, to be honest. Some people believe drinking cold liquid or having an ice cream on your period can affect the flow or even stop it completely. There's no research proving this, as the flow of the period is totally from the uterus.

Myth: Irregular periods are always a cause of concern

Irregular periods might mean you have an underlying issue such as PCOS or maybe thyroid disorders, but that is not the case for everyone. Some girls have a more extensive cycle of 35-40 days, sometimes more. So, their period dates vary a lot. Your period can be irregular because other facts also affect the cycle. However, we will advise you to get it checked with your healthcare provider if you experience this frequently!

Myth: Don't tell anyone about your periods

Women are expected to hide if they are on their periods because of embarrassment, and it is a taboo topic. Some men still can't accept it as a natural process, making us feel shameful and rude if we discuss it. We should empower every woman to have confidence and speak about it, and men should respect this and not discriminate.

Conclusion

We advise you to avoid these myths and disbeliefs. We are sure there are many other myths you must have heard or were made to believe. Still, it's time to clear all the misconceptions and not feel shameful in getting knowledge by questioning. If there is something you need clarification on, read about it online from trusted sites only, and talk to your gynecologist. Don't believe everything you hear or read. We have all the available information to learn and understand the scientific reason to make way for more assertive conversations and opinions towards menstrual health conditions. Let's break the cycle and create a healthy environment for future generations!