Menstrual myths have a long history. Many originated from valid concerns of the past but were twisted by patriarchal beliefs. Across cultures, menstruation has often been portrayed as a symbol of impurity, leading to practices that isolate or exclude women.
Historically, periods were considered a social taboo, and conversations around menstruation were largely suppressed. Books like Anita Diamant’s The Red Tent highlight how women once took breaks during menstruation, bonding in safe spaces. Some myths, like avoiding chores or syncing cycles, stem from such practices.
In modern times, misinformation continues to circulate, often passed down through generations. Let’s bust some of the most common period myths.
Don’t Wash Your Hair or Bathe When You’re Menstruating
There is no reason not to wash your hair, take a bath, or shower during your period days. A nice warm bath can do a lot to relieve menstrual cramps and premenstrual symptoms.
Don’t Go Swimming While On Your Period
It is safe to go swimming during your period. This myth started in the days before tampons were popular, primarily due to a hygiene concern about going for a swim without feminine protection. Any bodily fluid, including urine, faeces and menstrual blood, can contaminate a swimming pool.
On a side note, sharks most definitely do not chase you in the oceans because you’re menstruating.
You Shouldn’t Exercise or Perform Strenuous Activities During Your Period
Menstruation is a normal bodily function; having a period is not a disability. You can do pretty much anything during your period that you can do when you’re not menstruating. Regular exercise helps decrease painful menstrual cramps.
You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period
Although it is unlikely if you have regular periods, it is still possible to get pregnant during your period. You need to ovulate to get pregnant, and that usually happens after your period finishes. If you have an irregular cycle or bleed a bit longer than usual, your fertile window may overlap with your period.
Girls Shouldn’t Use Tampons During Their First Periods
There is absolutely no reason to avoid using tampons during your first period. Make sure you read the instructions and insert the tampon correctly. A properly inserted tampon doesn’t irritate or cause any discomfort.
Women Who Spend A Lot of Time Together Have Periods Together
While there is no proof to support this myth, a lot of us experience the syncing of cycles with girl gangs. But if you observe closely, it’s a cyclical relation where in your cycle will be in sync with 1 or 2 of your girlfriends for a couple of months and then revert to completely different dates for the next few. Researchers still don’t have any findings to support this concept and so it remains a myth.
You Can Pass Out From Period Blood Loss
Period blood looks like a lot more than it is. On average, you lose about two to three tablespoons of blood every time you menstruate. So unless you get very heavy periods, there’s no need to worry about passing out from ‘blood loss’. Your hormonal fluctuations can, however, make you feel weak, quite irritated and achy in general, but this has nothing to do with the actual loss of blood.
Some Of The Other Indian Myths Around Menstruation Are:
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Touching pickles will spoil them.
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Being near tulsi plants or god’s resting places is forbidden.
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Menstruating women shouldn’t eat certain foods or use communal utensils.
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Hair must be washed only after the period ends.
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Sleeping on the floor prevents contamination.
These outdated beliefs continue in some households, restricting accurate information about menstruation. Understanding the facts helps normalize periods and reduces stigma.