If you have ever believed that your body will swell if you bathe on the first day of your periods, then you are probably mistaken.
This and many other such myths lead to a poor understanding of periods and result in a poor understanding of this natural phenomenon.
Periods are unique for every woman and everyone among them has a different story to tell. Though menstruation is something many women don’t feel comfortable talking about, half of the world’s women don’t feel comfortable talking about it.
These misconceptions not only result in the poor understanding of periods but also result in many complications. Not keeping eyes on your menstrual hygiene during this time can result in vaginal infection. This happened to one of my colleagues and we took her to the top gynecologist in Lahore. This is even more dangerous and the complications it brings can take a toll on your health.
Common Misconceptions about Periods
Cultural aspects play an important role here. In many cultures around the world, discussing periods is considered taboo. From the timing of periods to menstrual flow, there are a lot of misconceptions about periods. Here is all you need to know about the right understanding of menstruation.
1- One shouldn’t exercise while on her periods
Many women can exhibit the symptoms of periods of difficulty and can find it problematic to work out. However, there is no prohibition of doing a workout during your periods. This is just a mere misconception. Women who suffer from extremely painful periods can even benefit from mild physical activity.
2- Periods should last for one week at least
Periods should exactly last one week during each month but this is no fixed duration of the menstrual cycle for most women. This varies from woman to woman and there is no’ ideal period duration. On average periods can last for 5 days but the duration greatly varies depending upon the dietary intake, traveling and other factors.
3- There is no such thing as PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
Premenstrual syndrome is something many women suffer from. PMS is basically experiencing a variety of physical and emotional symptoms just before the arrival of your periods. Many women experience troubling mood swings and food cravings while on their periods.
Though the severity of PMS varies from woman to woman, you can’t deny the fact that PMS is there and can affect the menstrual experience for most women.
4- You shouldn’t take a shower when on your periods
Many people believe that they can’t take a shower while they are on their periods. However, keeping up with your hygiene routine can help you to manage your period’s symptoms and even relieve the pain. Further, it keeps the infections at a bay and you will find yourself in a better mood feeling fresh and healthy. Even taking a hot shower is associated with improved menstrual and reduced menstrual pain.
5- You can’t get pregnant while you are on your periods
These popular periods myths arise from the fact that pregnancy is only possible when your womb is ready to implant the fertilized egg. Mensis or period is basically the shedding of this uterine lining. This leads to the misunderstanding that you can’t get pregnant if you are on your periods. But this is only a myth. The reason is that sperm can be stored in the human body for days and being on your periods doesn’t mean that there won’t be any stored sperms in the human body that can fertilize eggs later determining your likelihood of being pregnant.
6- You shouldn’t consume cold foods as it can worsen your period’s cramps
Period cramps are worse and are associated with the consumption of foods. Many people believe that eating or drinking cold and sour foods can severe your period pain. However, there is no such evidence. These foods don’t contain any such ingredient that can make your period pain worse.
Bottom Line!
Despite the fact how common are periods, they are often very poorly understood. These misconceptions are not backed by any scientific research. So, it is important for you to take care of your overall health while you are on your period. Make sure to eat nutritionally sufficient foods, drink enough water and ensure good menstrual hygiene. Further, if you suffer from any menstrual health problem, it is better to contact your gynecologist to make wise choices regarding your overall health.
