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6 Menstruation Myths, Debunked: Essential Facts for Better Feminine Care
A lot of girls, especially those who have just gotten their first period, rely on the internet for information on menstruation.
The thing is, while there are a lot of online articles and videos available, only some of what you read or watch is factual. Sometimes, contradicting stories pop up, further adding to the confusion.
If you too have been baffled about what you can and can’t do during that time of the month, read the following menstruation myths and facts.
ANSWER: FALSE.
According to urban legend, swimming in the ocean while you’re on your period will get you attacked, or worse, eaten by sharks. Not a single piece of evidence has been documented to support this claim. While it’s perfectly normal to be scared of sharks, especially when you’ve seen too much Jaws, don’t let this stop you from having fun at the beach and enjoying the sea.
ANSWER: TRUE, BUT SO DOES EXERCISE.
Many girls are apprehensive about using menstrual products such as tampons or menstrual cups, because they worry about tearing their hymens. In the Philippines, a torn hymen is sometimes equated to “losing virginity.” ****But this antiquated view of sexuality is disempowering to women.
While it’s not entirely impossible for the hymen to break when wearing a tampon, it should have no bearing on a woman’s sexual activity. In addition, other physical activities can tear the hymen such as vigorous exercise, horseback riding, gymnastics, and riding a bike.
Tampons may be useful when you need to swim during your period or when playing sports. If it’s your first time using one, you can try different sizes until you find the fit and application that’s comfortable for you.
ANSWER: FALSE.
While the exact cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) remains unclear, its symptoms can vary widely from woman to woman. Some women experience mild discomfort, while others may suffer from severe symptoms that disrupt their daily lives, including missing work.
The hormones estrogen and progesterone increase in the week prior to menstruation and begin to fall when the period starts. This hormonal fluctuation is believed to contribute to PMS, which is often characterized by emotional symptoms such as irritability, sadness, fatigue, anxiety, and anger. It can also manifest physical symptoms including cramps, headaches, breast tenderness, bloating, acne, and joint or muscle pain. These symptoms typically begin 1-2 weeks before menstruation and resolve within a few days after the period starts.
If you’re one of the girls who endure PMS every month, there are ways you can feel a little better despite the mood (and food) swings. Maintaining a healthy diet and getting adequate rest can be beneficial. Light stretching and warm baths may help ease cramps, while over-the-counter pain relievers can provide relief for severe cramps and discomfort. If symptoms are beyond your tolerance, you can consult with your doctor about potential treatments, which may include prescription medications or hormonal therapies.
It also helps to talk to your mom, sister or friends about what you’re going through. The struggle may be real but keep going, girl.
ANSWER: FALSE.
Ovulation can be quite unpredictable and it may happen before, during or after you bleed. This means that if you have unprotected sex during your period, there is a chance that you can get pregnant. Remember that sperm can survive up to 5 days in the uterus so if you aren’t exactly planning a baby, always use birth control or abstain from sex.
ANSWER: IT’S COMPLICATED.
If you automatically thought “No way!” after reading the previous sentence, you’re probably one of the many women who can’t stomach giving up their coffee, period or not.
Some women say that drinking coffee helps in easing their cramps and overcoming sluggishness. However, some are willing to skip caffeine during that time of the month because they experience discomfort such as bloating, tension, amplified exhaustion, and anxiety when drinking coffee during their period.
While caffeine does have vasoconstrictive properties—meaning it can cause blood vessels to narrow—the direct impact of caffeine on menstrual flow is not well-established (it also depends on one’s sensitivity to caffeine!). Some studies suggest that caffeine consumption may be associated with changes in menstrual patterns, but the results are mixed. We told you, it’s complicated!
ANSWER: FALSE.
Experts recommend washing your intimate area at least once a day, but what you might not know is that soap can be too harsh a cleanser. Soaps usually contain harsh ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). These detergents can disrupt the pH balance of your sensitive feminine area, leading to irritations, itchiness, and dryness.
While the vagina has the natural ability to cleanse itself, this self-cleansing mechanism can sometimes be compromised by hormonal shifts and other factors that disrupt the intimate area’s natural moisture. As a result, it becomes more vulnerable to irritation from harsh products. In such cases, using a gentle feminine wash that avoids irritating chemicals can provide the extra support needed to maintain comfort and balance.
To help restore this moisture balance, you can try Human Nature’s Natural Sensitive Feminine Wash. Our formula is thoughtfully crafted to be free from SLS, SLES, and other irritants, ensuring safe and effective feminine care. It’s always a good idea to read the label and choose eco-friendly menstrual products and natural feminine care that provide the gentle yet effective cleansing your delicate skin truly deserves.
We understand that every woman’s needs are different. That’s why we create gentle yet effective feminine washes formulated to address your unique concerns and made with natural ingredients you can trust. From gentle cleansers for delicate skin to refreshing options for daily use, discover the wash that best suits your needs through the link below.
