Right from puberty until menopause, the menstrual cycle is a biological process for every girl. Despite periods being a crucial biological process of life, there are a lot of misconceptions and myths that revolve around it. Hence, this article discusses 5 alarming myths and the facts about periods you must know.  

Sexual intercourse is unhealthy in periods  

As long as you are using suitable contraceptives and practising sex in a safe and consensual environment, it is not unhealthy. If you want to indulge in sexual intercourse during your periods, you should go forward. However, you should avoid it if you are uncomfortable or in pain. Sexual intercourse in periods can get messy, but it is entirely safe as long as you are comfortable.  

Using a tampon or menstrual cup impacts your virginity  

The hymen does not function like a door covering the vaginal opening. There is no standard appearance of the hymen in women, with its size, shape and flexibility changing throughout a woman’s lifespan. Using tampons or menstrual cups might just stretch or tear the hymen sometimes. However, this does not state that a woman loses her virginity. Sexual intercourse is the only way individuals can lose their virginity.  

You can hold your menstrual flow the same way you can hold your pee 

Urine and menstrual blood do not exit from the same opening. Hence, it is impossible to maintain menstrual flow like pee. The urine comes out of the urethra, an opening located right above the vagina. Muscular structures, called urethral sphincters, reflex and contract to regulate the urine flow. Period blood flows out of your vagina. While there are vaginal sphincter muscles that surround the vagina, they have a specific function intended for sexual pleasure; you cannot relax or contract them to hold in your blood flow. 

PMS is not real 

One of the most common period myths is that Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) stems only from the “myth of the irrational female”. However, PMS is an actual condition that occurs through changes in the emotional, physical and behavioural health of a woman. Some menstruators might not experience PMS at all, while others may experience mild symptoms. The severity of all these symptoms can also impact daily life.  

The presence of any blood clot in your menstrual flow is abnormal  

A pea-sized blood clot during your period is entirely normal. Small blood vessels in the region bleed as the uterine lining sheds itself. Your body signals the release of protein to avoid further bleeding. When the menstrual blood collects in the vagina or uterus before exit, the protein factors in the blood clump together and lead to blood clots. This is quite normal to happen. However, consulting your gynaecologist is essential if you frequently notice large blood clots, persistent pain or heavy flow.  

Conclusion  

All the period myths busted above exist across several socio-economic and educational demographics. Hence, separating period myths from facts can boost awareness and help people view menstruation just as a normal bodily function.