As of 2021, there are approximately 7.8 billion people in the world.
Half of which are born with female genitalia., and all of which will go through menstruation (periods). During this time, the uterus sheds the mucosal tissue alongside blood through the vagina. They last between 3-7 days, and occur every 28 days, however cycle lengths can vary.
Sadly, cultures still vilify menstruation, and consider period blood ‘dirty’ or ‘impure’. Nepal is one such culture in which women move into ‘menstruation huts’ to bleed in complete isolation. Taking inspiration from Breast Cancer Awareness, here are some myths about menstruation being debunked.
Warning: the information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is for general information only.
Birth Control Pills
I have girlfriends who go through excessive cramping or suffer conditions like endometriosis, every bleeding cycle. Many are suspicious about birth control methods that prevent women from monthly bleeding. The questions about ‘infertility’ or ‘pregnancies’ are often raised, so here is where you can visit to find some of your answers. Periods, as natural as they are, can disrupt routines by necessitating time and energy to their care. The countless times I’ve seen my friends lying in pain, unable to work, are a real hindrance to productivity.
I too, am suspicious of using birth control. Could it could affect my body? This could be because of how closely the concept of menstruation is tied to a woman’s identity. “You’re becoming a woman!” is the typical response adolescents receive at first bleed. Frankly, I don’t find comfort in my periods as a confirmation of my womanhood.
Evidently, most of the conversation buildup around period elimination is focused on women who have painful periods. However, sometimes you just don’t want the inconvenience. For example, athletes who can’t take days off from training, doctors on call or working women. Thus, the purpose of the pill is to provide a choice to control your body too.
Syncing Periods
An abnormal concept which I’ve noticed is more common than not, are syncing of cycles between women. Say, when two women spend time together, such as roommates, often you might experience period synchrony. This phenomenon is due to a female releasing pheromones which affect the cycles of women around her.
Tampon Myths
The most consistent misconceptions refer to the use of tampons. Because it is inserted inside, you may worry about internal damage. One major concern is breaking the hymen which is a popular misconception for the ‘mark of virginity’. In reality, the lubrication of the blood will aid using tampons, if done correctly. Always change regularly, as recommended, every 4-8 hours to prevent accumulated blood and bacteria. This can cause toxic shock syndrome.
If ever you feel at a loss with information you have, speak to a nurse, doctor or OB/GYN to fact check. Myths and misconceptions have no place in healthcare.
