Menstruation is a natural process that every woman experiences, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood areas of health. Myths and misconceptions often cloud the facts, contributing to confusion and stigma around periods.
Let’s debunk five common menstrual myths with the help of science-backed insights.
Here’s a list of five common menstrual myths and truths to debunk them.
1. Myth: Menstruation Should Always Last Seven Days
Truth: The length of a menstrual period can vary widely among women, typically lasting between 3 to 7 days. Factors such as age, hormonal changes, and overall health can influence period length.
Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
2. Myth: Women Need to Have a Period Every Month to Be Healthy
Truth: Monthly periods aren’t essential for every woman’s health. With the help of continuous birth control, some women choose to suppress their cycles without adverse effects, a method deemed safe for many.
Source: National Health Service (NHS), Planned Parenthood
3. Myth: Period Pain Is Normal and Nothing to Worry About
Truth: While mild discomfort can be common, severe pain is not normal and may signal underlying issues like endometriosis or fibroids. Women experiencing intense pain should consult a healthcare provider.
Source: Endometriosis Foundation of America, ACOG
4. Myth: You Shouldn’t Exercise During Your Period
Truth: Exercise can actually help relieve cramps and improve mood during menstruation. Light to moderate activity is safe and beneficial for most women during their period.
Source: Mayo Clinic
5. Myth: Menstrual Blood Is Dirty or Impure
Truth: Menstrual blood is simply blood and uterine lining, which are naturally shed each cycle. It’s neither dirty nor impure, and this misconception contributes to stigma and shame surrounding menstruation.
Source: UNICEF, World Health Organisation (WHO)
Meanwhile, a Gynaecologist at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Jamila Richifa, has said health complications from menstrual disorders can be life-threatening or further decrease the patient’s quality of life.
In an interview with Premium Times, Richifa, said when menstrual disorders are poorly managed, the health risk can be very dangerous.
She said, “Depending on the type of disorder, women can experience heart failure, difficulty in breathing, general weakness of the body, infertility, and a host of other sicknesses.”
Also speaking with The ICIR, a medical doctor, Odiri Oniko, said repeated infections could lead to complications that cause infertility.
“The main problem with tissue is that it can break off pieces and ascend up there. This could lead to the most common complications from unsafe hygienic practices during periods: infections.
“Repeated infections can lead to bigger complications, mostly scarring and adhesions that can cause fertility problems like blocked tubes. It can also cause toxic shock and sepsis too,” she said.
