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Menstruation, commonly referred to as periods or menses, is a completely natural body process, yet it is often accompanied by various cultural beliefs and proscriptions. These myths and misconceptions have long hindered women’s understanding of their own bodies. To dismantle the social stigma surrounding menstruation, it is crucial to debunk these myths.
In an effort to normalise the menstrual cycle and debunk common myths related to periods in India, here are some key facts:
Myth: Women shed impure blood during periods.
Fact: This widespread misconception labels period blood as dirty or impure. However, it’s essential to realise that menstruation is a natural part of a woman’s reproductive system, preparing her body for potential pregnancy. The blood during menstruation is the same blood that circulates throughout the body. The clumping and colour variations in period blood have scientific explanations. Women shed both blood and uterine tissue during this time. The colour can range from light red to dark brown, with the change resulting from the blood’s reaction with oxygen (oxidation). Dark brown or blackish colour is often observed at the beginning or end of the menstrual cycle.
Myth: Missing a period means you’re pregnant.
Fact: A late or missed period doesn’t necessarily indicate pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome, excess weight, an unhealthy diet, illness, and stress can also disrupt your menstrual cycle. A lab test is the definitive way to confirm pregnancy.
Myth: Exercising during your period is harmful.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that exercising during your period is detrimental to your health. In fact, physical activity promotes overall well-being and can alleviate menstrual cramps. Activities like walking carry no risks. Certain yoga poses may also provide relief from period cramps. Consulting the best gynecologist in Ahmedabad can help you determine safe exercises during menstruation. It’s advisable to avoid high-intensity workouts.
Myth: You cannot become pregnant while on your period.
Fact: While it is less common to conceive during your period, it’s not impossible. If a woman has a shorter menstrual cycle and has intercourse toward the end of a six-day-long period, followed by ovulation shortly after, some sperm may survive, leading to pregnancy. Another reason for a false alarm could be spotting or bleeding during ovulation, which is the most fertile phase of the reproductive cycle.
Myth: Avoid washing your hair during your period.
Fact: Personal hygiene should not be compromised during menstruation. There is no scientific basis for refraining from washing your hair or taking a shower during your period. In fact, a warm bath can provide relief from painful cramps.
Myth: Using a tampon results in loss of virginity.
Fact: While it’s true that tampons may cause the hymen to stretch and, in rare instances, break, it does not equate to the loss of virginity. Virginity is a multifaceted concept that extends beyond the presence of the hymen. The hymen can naturally break due to activities such as cycling. Generally, when a tampon is inserted, the hymen stretches to accommodate it, reducing the impact on a woman’s virginity.
Myth: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a figment of the imagination.
Fact: PMS symptoms are real and typically occur a week or two before menstruation. They are linked to hormonal changes in a woman’s monthly cycle. Over 90% of women experience some form of premenstrual symptoms, including bloating, headaches, mood swings (irritation, depression, etc.), fatigue, cramps, and headaches. These symptoms are often at their peak four days before menstruation and gradually subside two to three days after it begins.
Conclusion:
To dispel these myths is to empower women to better understand their bodies. Menstruation can reveal valuable information about one’s health, and it should not be clouded by unfounded beliefs until supported by scientific evidence. To know more facts about menstruation or have any queries regards that then must consult with the Gynecologist in Ahmedabad.
