A period, menses or menstruation, is a physiologic process of vaginal bleeding during a woman’s monthly cycle. It is the process by which the uterus Every female experiences the menstrual cycle as a normal process right from puberty until menopause. Despite periods being one of the important physiological processes in life, there are still a lot of misconceptions, confusion, and myths revolving around menstruation. In this health article, we address the top 8 myths about periods and their actual facts that you need to know. 

Myth 1: Your periods come once every 28 days

Fact: There is no hard and fast rule that you will get your periods once every 28 days. A menstrual cycle can range anywhere from 21 days to 35 days, and this is considered normal. If the time between the two cycles keeps changing and your periods come earlier or later, then it is known as irregular periods. When irregular periods are associated with inconsistent menstrual blood flow, it is called oligomenorrhea. Irregular periods occur due to various factors such as your age or other health conditions and lifestyle related factors.

Myth 2: You should avoid exercise while you have your periods

Fact: Contrary to the belief that you should avoid exercise during periods, exercises can help reduce pain due to menstrual cramps. Exercises also help reduce bloating (extra water weight), release endorphins (the feel-good hormones) thereby reducing the menstrual symptoms such as mood swings, crankiness. Exercise can also lighten and regulate your period flow.

  • It is advisable to do light to moderate intensity exercises like walking or light jogging.
  • You can also opt for yoga or pranayama (breathing exercises) to relieve stress, anxiety, and irritability.
  • If you go to the gym to workout, avoid high-intensity workouts during your periods. 

Myth 3: Eating sour foods will worsen your periods

Fact: The food you eat does not decide the flow of your periods. There is absolutely no connection between your periods and sour food consumption, like tamarind, curd, and pickles. However, it is necessary for a woman to maintain a healthy diet like beans, roti, pulses, brown bread, yogurt, etc., during her menstruation. 

Myth 4: You can’t go swimming when you have your period

Fact: Swimming during your period is not a problem. If you want to swim during your periods, it is always advisable to use tampons or menstrual cups. Tampons are menstrual products, inserted inside your vagina for absorbing blood and other secretions during menstruation. A menstrual cup is another female hygiene product that is inserted into your vagina to collect blood during menstruation.

Myth 5: You should avoid sex when you have your period

Fact: Having sex during your period is safe. It can be a little messy but is fine as long as you and your partner are both consenting. Sex during your period can help boost and elevate your mood. It results in the release of ‘happy hormones such as dopamine (an organic chemical released by the brain that plays a role in how we experience pleasure) and oxytocin (associated with empathy, trust, sexual activity, and relationship-building). 

Myth 6: If you don’t get your period, you are definitely pregnant

Fact: Pregnancy is not the only reason you may miss your period. There are many reasons that can delay your periods and a delay doesn’t necessarily mean that you are pregnant. Your period could be delayed due to stress, sudden weight gain or loss, or hormonal changes. 

Myth 7: You will not have bleeding if you are pregnant

Fact: It is important to understand that absence of bleeding does not always equate to pregnancy. You may experience spotting during pregnancy.

Take home message: Period myths are also a result of various socio-cultural norms, especially in developing nations, including India. Most often, these myths are formed due to a lack of awareness and the right knowledge. Believing in myths like these can hamper you from understanding and learning more about your period. Always consult your doctor for the right information and seek advice accordingly. 

Disclaimer: The content (video/text) presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.