From wilting tulsi plants to ruining pickles, the myths and taboos surrounding menstruation abound aplenty. In some parts of the world, women are shunned from kitchens, places of worship and in the others, they are asked to reduce contact with the outside world. And a common denominator in all these myths is that women are impure when they are on their periods. Is it true? Is there any scientific backing to these myths? Why are they still in practice?
These questions are just as enigmatic as the origin of these taboos, and they are prevalent not only in third world countries but around the globe. The reason?
Myths
Myth 1: The Universal Period Cycle
Period cycles vary for every woman. There is no universal scale. It’s perfectly natural for a period to last anywhere between three to seven days. Most women who haven’t reached menopause usually have a period every 28 days.
However, a healthy menstrual cycle can range from every 21 to 35 days. And as generations go by, even the age at which girls attain their menarche can be faster. Contrary to our older generations, it’s not uncommon for girls as young as 8/9 years old to start puberty too.
This is thought to be due to several factors such as better overall health and diet. However, other things such as stress, being overweight and climate can all influence the age at which girls start puberty.
Myth 2: Hot showers increase the flow
If there is one thing about hygiene and personal care, it’s that it is never harmful. While hot water can help stimulate blood flow, this can help relieve menstrual cramps and ease muscular tension. Only make sure you don’t burn yourself on scalding water or freeze in icy cold waters. Period or no period, there nothing comfortable about that.
The pressure from the water may temporarily prevent the blood from flowing out of the vagina. Although as soon as you are out of your shower, everything will be back to normal.
Myth 3: Say no to Exercise; avoid swimming
Contrary to popular beliefs exercising during periods results in better performance, sleep, mood and in combating period cramps and PMS symptoms. Just make sure you have plenty of fluids and keep a check on a healthy diet. As hard as this seems, this is vital on any other day too.
And when it comes to swimming, pads don’t exactly hold up in the pools. But, with the right hygiene products, you are all set to swiftly cut across waters. Using tampons or menstrual cups is an option you might want to look into. And no, don’t worry, you will not bleed in the pool or attract sharks with your period blood. That’s a taking it a little to far.