Top 10 Periods Myths We Need to Set Straight

Even in today’s modern world, there’s still a surprising amount of misinformation surrounding the menstrual cycle. These myths can negatively impact women’s health, self-esteem, and daily life. Let’s uncover the truth behind the most common period myths and empower women with accurate information.

Myth 1: You Shouldn't Exercise During Your Period

Reality: Many believe that exercising during menstruation can worsen cramps or cause health issues. In fact, light to moderate physical activity can alleviate menstrual cramps, reduce bloating, and even improve mood due to endorphin release. Activities like yoga, walking, stretching, and even cardio can support better blood flow and improve overall menstrual health.

Pro Tip: Listen to your body. If you’re feeling up to it, moving around can be beneficial, not harmful.

Myth 2: You Can't Get Pregnant During Your Period

Reality: While the chances are lower, pregnancy during a period is not impossible. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days. If you have a short menstrual cycle and ovulate early, you could conceive towards the end of your period. This myth often leads to unintended pregnancies due to misunderstanding fertility cycles. Important: Always use protection if you’re not planning for pregnancy, regardless of your cycle phase.

Myth 3: Irregular Periods Are Always Norma

Reality: Many women are told that having irregular periods is “just how their body works,” but frequent irregularities can signal underlying issues like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, extreme stress, or hormonal imbalances. A healthy menstrual cycle typically ranges between 21–35 days. If your cycle is consistently irregular, it’s best to consult a gynaecologist.

Did You Know? Supplements like Fertilicaa-F by Vetlanda Healthcare are specially formulated to support hormone regulation and menstrual balance.

Myth 4: Period Blood Is Dirty or Impure

Reality: This is one of the most harmful and deeply ingrained myths. Menstrual blood is not dirty or toxic—it’s simply the shedding of the uterine lining, a completely natural biological process. Treating menstruation as something unclean leads to stigma and emotional distress for many women around the world.

Fact: Promoting menstrual hygiene does not mean hiding periods; it means managing them with dignity and cleanliness.

Myth 5: You Shouldn't Take a Bath or Wash Hair During Your Period

Reality: This is a cultural myth that has no scientific backing. In reality, a warm bath can help relax muscles, ease cramps, and improve circulation. Washing your hair or body does not affect the menstrual cycle or cause any internal issues. On the contrary, staying clean during your period is essential for good hygiene and infection prevention.

Health Tip: Avoid using heavily fragranced products as they may irritate menstruation.

Myth 6: PMS Is Just in Your Head

Reality: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a medically recognized condition with both emotional and physical symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, headaches, breast tenderness, and irritability. These symptoms are caused by fluctuating hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

Reminder: If PMS affects your quality of life, consult a gynaecologist. Dietary, lifestyle and medical treatments can help.

Myth 7: Menstrual Pain is Normal and Should Be Tolerated

Reality: Mild cramps are common, but severe period pain (dysmenorrhea) that disrupts daily activities should not be ignored. Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or adenomyosis may be the cause. Women are often conditioned to “bear the pain,” but medical evaluation is crucial when pain is intense or persistent.

Take Action: Don’t normalize suffering—seek professional care and consider treatment options, including hormone therapy, pain relief medications, or supplements.

Myth 8: You Can't Swim or Go to the Beach on Your Period

Reality: With modern menstrual products like tampons, menstrual cups, and period swimwear, you can comfortably swim or enjoy the beach during your period. The belief that you must stay indoors is outdated and unnecessary. Swimming can even relieve cramps and elevate your mood.

Hygiene Note: Change your tampon or menstrual cup promptly after swimming to avoid irritation or infection.

Myth 9: You Must Change Pads Only Twice a Day

Reality: Menstrual hygiene is critical. Changing sanitary pads every 4–6 hours (or more frequently, depending on flow) helps prevent rashes, infections, and unpleasant odours. The same goes for tampons and menstrual cups—timely changes are essential for safe period care.

Hygiene Tip: Never sleep overnight in the same pad for more than 6–8 hours, especially during heavy flow.

Myth 10: Periods Stop When You're in Water

Reality: While it’s true that water pressure may temporarily reduce or slow menstrual flow, your period does not actually stop. The blood flow may not be as noticeable due to the pressure, but internally, your body is still menstruating.

Safety Tip: Use appropriate products if you’re swimming or bathing during your period to manage hygiene effectively.

Facts & Case Studies on Menstrual Myths

Fact: According to a 2023 UNICEF report, nearly 1 in 3 girls in India miss school during their periods due to myths and lack of access to menstrual products.

Fact: A WHO study revealed that 68% of women globally believed at least one false myth about menstruation before the age of 18.

Case Study: In a 2022 study conducted in Tamil Nadu, over 55% of rural adolescent girls believed that bathing during periods could cause infertility. After a 6-month educational program, belief in this myth dropped to just 12%.

Supporting Women's Menstrual Health – Vetlanda Healthcare

At Vetlanda Healthcare, we understand how important it is to support menstrual wellness through scientifically backed, accessible solutions. As a leader in the pharmaceutical industry in India, we are committed to advancing women’s health through innovation and care.

Is it unhealthy to miss a period occasionally?

Occasional skips can happen due to stress or lifestyle changes, but consistently missed periods should be medically evaluated.

Can herbal remedies or food delay your period?

While certain herbs may influence hormones, no food or herb should be used without consulting a doctor.

Is it normal to have brown discharge before or after a period?

Yes, it’s often old blood being cleared out, but if it’s persistent or has a foul smell, consult your gynaecologist.

Does Fertilicaa-F help with irregular periods?

Yes, Fertilicaa-F is formulated to support hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles, especially in women with PCOS.

Should teenagers worry about irregular cycles?

Irregular periods can be expected during the first 1–2 years of menstruation. However, prolonged irregularity may require medical attention.