Menstrual Cycles: Separating Fact from Fiction
For centuries, periods have been shrouded in misinformation and depicted as dangerous, unhygienic, and disgusting. The generational negative stigma surrounding periods has now been inherited by the 21st century. Although most people are now aware that periods are normal biological processes, many myths and generalizations are still popular in our society. In today’s world, it’s crucial to distinguish fact from fiction and educate individuals about the gift of our menstrual cycle. To do this, let’s debunk some common assumptions and decipher the truth about periods:
Myth: Menstrual blood is dirty and impure
Truth: Menstrual blood is not dirty or impure. It is a mixture of blood, uterine tissue, and mucus that sheds during the menstrual cycle. This process is a natural and necessary function for reproductive health.
Myth: Periods are always painful and disruptive
Truth: While period cramps are a common menstrual symptom, they do not affect every individual. Pain levels can vary from person to person and from time to time. For example, I usually only experience cramps the day before my period—this is called PMS or premenstrual syndrome, which warns me that I am about to enter my cycle. Sometimes, I don’t get cramps at all; it all just varies from time to time.
Myth: Swimming during your period is unhygienic
Truth: While it is true that swimming in a pool during heavy flow without wearing protective products may cause leakage, this can be effectively prevented by using tampons, menstrual cups, or period-proof swimwear.
Myth: You can’t get pregnant during your period.
Truth: Although getting pregnant during your period is rare and uncommon, it could still happen. Sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for several days, overlapping with the release of an egg later in the cycle.
Myth: Periods make you emotionally unstable
Truth: Hormonal changes during menstruation can cause mood changes in some people, but it does not make them emotionally unstable. Emotions vary throughout the cycle and from person to person.
Myth: Skipping periods with birth control is unsafe
Truth: Many types of hormonal birth control, such as pills, patches, and hormonal IUDs, can safely stop menstruation or reduce the frequency of periods. This is safe and can be beneficial for managing menstrual symptoms or pain.
While the negative stigma and misinformation surrounding periods persists in the 21st century, it's essential to gain accurate knowledge about our bodies and their natural processes. Debunking common assumptions and educating others about menstrual cycles is crucial. Not every popular belief about periods holds truth, so it's important to verify information from reliable sources. Educating ourselves and sharing factual information about menstrual cycles empowers individuals and promotes understanding and acceptance.
