Period myths: All across India’s diverse culture, menstruation, also known as periods, remains wrapped in stigma and misconceptions.
Despite being a natural biological process, conversations about periods continue to be avoided. The silence around periods has created misconceptions that shape how women experience and talk about their cycles.
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Let’s debunk some myths that surround menstruation.
Myth: You cannot wash your hair during your period.
Fact: There’s no scientific reason to avoid washing your hair. A warm shower can relieve cramps, reduce fatigue, and boost mood.
Myth: Period blood is impure and unhygienic.
Fact: Menstrual blood is not dirty. It contains the same components as the blood that flows into the rest of the body. Few people also consider it toxic, but it is simply the shedding of the uterine lining. There’s nothing impure about it. It’s part of a healthy reproductive cycle.
Myth: You should not enter temples and kitchens when on your period.
Fact: It is believed that during their periods, women are impure and unhygienic, and hence, the food they prepare will be contaminated. These restrictions have been passed on by generations. There’s no medical rationale behind this. Periods don’t make a woman impure. We must shift the narrative from exclusion to understanding to make women more comfortable during their cycles.
Myth: You should not exercise during your period.
Fact: It is often believed that exercising while on a period can increase the period flow and also cause painful periods. However, moderate exercise can help relieve cramps and bloating and improve mood. Exercise boosts endorphins, your natural painkillers.
Myth: You shouldn’t have sex during your period.
Fact: Unlike popular belief, periods can have a positive effect on women’s overall health. Sex during periods can help women relieve migraines, increase their sex drive and also relieve menstrual cramps. It’s generally safe to have sex during your period, though some people find it messy. Overall, it’s a personal preference.
Myth: You can’t get pregnant during your period.
Truth: While rare, it is possible, especially for women with shorter cycles. Sperm can survive for up to 5 days in the body, so don’t skip protection if you’re not planning a pregnancy.
Myth: You should not eat sour, spicy foods during your period.
Fact: Women are often advised not to eat sour and spicy food like curd, tamarind, or pickles during their cycles, as it could disturb the period flow. The food you eat doesn’t have anything to do with period flow.
Myth: You should not talk about periods openly.
Fact: Open discussion about periods is crucial for education, awareness and breaking the period stigma. Treating periods as taboo can restrict younger generations from being well-informed about their bodies.
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Periods are not a curse, a taboo, or something to be ashamed of. They’re normal, healthy, and powerful. Imposing restrictions on women can have a huge impact on their education, health, social participation and dignity.
Everybody should realise that menstruation is not only a woman’s issue; it’s a matter of public health. Let’s continue the conversation and educate without fear or shame.
