Myths about periods are nothing surprising! They have been there for ages, but breaking the silence needs facts to present. Knowing what a period or menstruation is, its role, etc., can help us understand the science and challenge false beliefs.
For support regarding your reproductive health, meet your gynecologist and get expert advice. You might see the best gynecologist in Siliguri City at New Ramkrishna Seva Sadan.
This blog shares six alarming myths about periods that might sound real. Have a read.
Myth 1: You Should Not Practice Exercises During Periods
Fact: Yes, a widely common misconception is that physical exercise should be avoided when you’re menstruating. Otherwise, it may make period cramps worse or create other problems.
Did you know period pain can be improved by modest to moderate activity? Natural painkillers called endorphins are releasedduring exercise. Workouts during periods are nothing harmful if you’re comfortable.
If you're feeling exhausted, it's advisable to take a break, but there's no medical justification for skipping mild or moderate exercise completely. Based on your health and comfort, you can set the workout intensity level. Comfortable walking, yoga, and stretching are really good,as they may reduce menstrual cramps and elevate mood.
Myth 2: Period Blood Means Impure Blood
Fact: Driven by hormones, menstrual blood travels from your uterus through your cervix and exits your body through your vagina. This includes both blood and tissue from the interior of your uterus.
During your menstrual cycle, the ovaries and pituitary gland produce and release hormones that line the uterus, causing it to thicken. It prepares the body for fertilization, but pregnancy does not happen if sperm does not fertilize the egg. Here,the uterine lining breaks and sheds - it's your menstruation.
The sense of impurity concerning period blood is how a particular culture or society views menstruation. Made up of blood, tissue, and mucus, menstrual blood is a normal, healthy body fluid – it has nothing to do with purity or impurity.
Myth 3: You Can’t Get Pregnant on Your Period or Menstrual Cycle
Fact: Sperm can remain in the female reproductive system for up to three days following intercourse.Sperm may still fertilize the egg if ovulation occurs within a few days of having sexual intercourse close to the end of menstruation.
Although it is less likely to happen, becoming pregnant while on your period is still possible. You should know that conception can still happen if you have a short period or irregular ovulation, since sperm can remain within the body for up to three days. You might see one of the best gynecologists in Siliguri for pregnancy-related concerns.
Myth 4: During Your Period, You Lose a Lot of Blood
Fact: Because period blood can occasionally seem heavy or heavy periods are common in many women, people may assume that periods shed a lot of blood throughout each cycle.On average, awoman loses between 30 and 80 milliliters (about 2 to 6 tablespoons) of blood during their menstrual cycle, which mixes with mucus and uterine tissue.
Too much tiredness or soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours may indicate heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), which calls for a doctor's support. You might consult the best gynecologist in Siliguri for heavy periods or any period-related irregularities.
Myth 5: Menstruation Should Be Painless
Fact: Though uterine contractions should not cause unbearable pain, some discomfort is quite common during periods. On the other hand, for extreme discomfort, particularly when it gets in the way of everyday tasks, one should seek medical attention immediately. Such a level of pain or discomfort may indicate endometriosis or fibroids.
Your uterus contracts to support shedding its lining throughout your menstrual cycle. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that contribute to pain as they trigger muscle contractions.
Myth 6: Only Women Get Periods
Fact: Because a period is a biological thing, it has nothing to do with gender. The truth is, periods are also possible for trans males, non-binary persons, and those who identify as gender nonconforming.
A lack of open discussion and insufficient sex education, period myths have beensustained for decades. However, “if there’s a will, there’s a way” – we should prioritize our well-being by learning and being aware of the facts. The world has come so far! So, by busting these myths, we can help people understand the reality.