Menstrual Myths

Zephlin H. Dawn
Aug 22
4 min read

Menstruation, also known as Shark Week, that time of the month, and most commonly, a period, is the process of the endometrial lining breaking down and being shed through the vagina, caused by uterine contractions (NCBI). This process occurs depending on your cycle, most commonly once a month. Specifically, this happens because menstruation is a part of the reproductive process (allowing babies to be made; eggs fertilized). Your body recognizes that an egg has not been fertilized, and therefore must continue the cycle (NCBI). Menstruation is a different experience for everyone. Nevertheless, there are myths and misconceptions about periods. Menstruation has a lot of stigma surrounding it, causing people to be ashamed of this process. That is why it's so important to educate people about periods to get rid of stigma, shame, and empower (Wellbeing of Women).

To begin with, “periods are dirty and unclean.” This shame impacts menstrual hygiene access and education. Consequently, it is difficult to ask for help with your body changing when you are told it's gross. This is a natural, necessary process for life. You would not exist without periods (Wellbeing of Women). In fact, vaginas are self-cleaning. This is because they have to maintain a specific pH balance that harbors healthy bacteria (like lactobacilli) and prevents infections (NCBI).

Additionally, another huge misconception is that you can't get pregnant while on your period; this is false. For one, sperm can live in the female body for up to five days (FamilyDoctor.org). If you have a short menstrual cycle, you may ovulate shortly after, which subjects you to pregnancy. Even though it is less likely to get pregnant while on your period, it is a very real possibility, so be aware (FamilyDoctor.org).

“As an athlete, it is normal not to have your period.” This is false. You should still have your period as an athlete, and if you don't, it is most likely due to a malnutrition issue, meaning you are not fueling your body enough to keep up with the calories burned. Moreover, missing your period due to malnutrition can also be linked to eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia (Nationwide Children’s Hospital).

“Period pain is constant or is exaggerated.” Pain varies for each person; it can be extreme or mild. Furthermore, period pain usually comes in waves—one hour you're curled up, unable to move, the next you're doing a grand jeté (a ballet move). Period pain stems from the contracting of the uterus releasing blood; this contracting leads to painful cramps, usually in your lower stomach, although it can disrupt nerves elsewhere, causing pain in the legs, back, etc. In fact, many have disorders that worsen period pain and symptoms, like endometriosis or PCOS. When we dismiss or underwhelm period pain, it builds the already huge thought that women's pain is not as severe as it is portrayed, which in turn brings doctors who dismiss women's pain and problems (FamilyDoctor.org).

“Swimming is a no when on your period.” False, you can 100% still swim. I do not know of anyone who has not swum on their period; it is perfectly normal. Wearing tampons or a menstrual cup can prevent leaking while swimming. So, don't be afraid—just swim and have fun!

When you bleed, the color will be a shade of red, darker depending on how long it has been in the vagina, which can look more brown or even brown discharge—all of which is normal! This is because blood becomes dark the older it is (NCBI). Nevertheless, your period is not just blood: it is only 30–50% blood, or 2–3 tablespoons of actual blood, depending on your body and cycle. The rest consists of endometrial tissue—the lining of the uterus that builds up each cycle and sheds during menstruation—cervical mucus, which either helps facilitate or blocks sperm movement depending on the cycle stage, and vaginal secretions that keep the vagina clean and healthy. This brings the total fluid loss to 4–12 tablespoons (NCBI).

“Periods only happen once per month.” While it is very common, you can also have longer cycles that cause periods to come every 6 weeks, for example, or you may have a shorter cycle, making it possible for your period to occur twice in one calendar month (FamilyDoctor.org). Additionally, periods begin around the ages of 9–15. Adolescents and adults also have different cycles for their periods. An average cycle for adults is 21–35 days, while an average cycle for adolescents is 21–45 days. Once you get to around the age of 24, your cycle becomes more consistent (Nationwide Children’s Hospital). There are many misconceptions about the age at which you should get your period. The usual is 9–14; however, it depends on your body. Still, if you are not getting your period by age 15, it is recommended to talk to a doctor about it (Nationwide Children’s Hospital).

Menstruation education is all too important. To summarize, it’s important to debunk harmful myths: periods are not dirty; you should not be ashamed of having one; in fact, about 50% of the population has one. Having a period also doesn’t mean you can’t be pregnant. Remember, your periods will deteriorate, become irregular, or become nonexistent if you don't take care of yourself. Your pain is real, and if you think you are experiencing an extreme amount of pain, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor or someone you trust.

Moreover, never let your doctor dismiss your pain; get a second opinion, don't give up, and make your voice heard. The best way to erase stigma and myths is through education. Educate yourself and others. Periods are normal (Wellbeing of Women).