Menstruation is still associated with many myths and stereotypes that we pass on from generation to generation. Some of these misconceptions affect how we as a society perceive one of the main biological processes, others can even cost us our health. The ban on sex during menstruation, the inevitability of pain, or the stereotype of a hysterical woman before menstruation... Time to dispel some of these misconceptions once and for all. What of what you have heard is not true at all?
Impure menstrual blood
The idea that menstrual blood is “unclean” has been around for centuries in various cultures. Unlike blood from an injury, for example, it is considered something to be hidden. In fact, menstruation is a natural part of the reproductive system, and menstrual blood is a mixture of blood, uterine lining, and bodily secretions. It is not toxic or contaminated. The whole myth of impurity stems from the taboo surrounding menstruation, not from scientific fact.
Equally entrenched is the myth that sex during menstruation is unhygienic. Menstrual blood is just another bodily fluid, and there's no reason to avoid sex during your period unless you and your partner want to. Some women even experience increased libido or sensitivity during their period, which can deepen intimacy. What's important is mutual comfort, open communication, and the use of protection—not only because of the risk of transmitting infections, but also to avoid unplanned pregnancy.
(Un)safe sex during menstruation
Many people believe that unprotected sex during menstruation is safe and there is no risk of conception. In fact, the risk of pregnancy is reduced, but it is not completely eliminated. Sperm can survive in a woman's body for up to 5 days. If you have a short cycle and ovulation occurs soon after the end of menstruation, sperm can still be "waiting" in the fallopian tubes at the very moment when the egg is released. The result can be an unplanned pregnancy.
Moreover, bleeding does not always mean menstruation. In some cases , it is spotting associated with ovulation, for example. Therefore, unprotected sex during menstruation is not a reliable contraceptive method.
Read also: 5 signs of ovulation and why it matters.
Pain as part of menstruation
Discomfort or mild pain during menstruation is common and is related to natural uterine contractions. Severe pain that limits your daily life is certainly not something you should ignore. Many women believe that pain is simply part of menstruation and therefore tolerate it quietly without seeking professional help. However, more severe pain can be a sign of medical conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis or hormonal imbalance. If the pain bothers you significantly, do not hesitate to contact a gynecologist.
Vagina vs. vulva
The terms vagina and vulva are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different parts of the female body. The vulva refers to the entire external genitalia—the labia, clitoris, clitoris, urethra, and vaginal opening—while the vagina is the internal tube connecting the cervix to the outside of the body.
Special intimate care
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ that naturally maintains a healthy pH balance through its secretions. Using special perfumed or antibacterial cleansers can disrupt this balance, which can lead to irritation, itching or recurring infections. For routine hygiene of the intimate areas, lukewarm water and, if necessary, a mild soap intended for sensitive skin are sufficient. Internal douches or aggressive cosmetics are not necessary, on the contrary, they can be harmful.
This sensitivity is also a good thing to keep in mind when taking care of your period. Regular pads and tampons are often perfumed or chemically bleached, which can lead to irritation or disruption of the vaginal microflora. The simpler the composition, the better. That is why Femvie pads and tampons contain only 100% organic cotton, without perfume, plastic or synthetic fibers. This makes them breathable, gentle on the skin and suitable even for women with sensitive mucous membranes. This helps to minimize the risk of irritation, allergies or itching.
Cycle synchronization
You may have heard it before – when women live or spend a lot of time together, their menstrual cycles synchronize and they start menstruating at the same time. This idea is very widespread, but scientific evidence for it is lacking.
This myth was born out of a study from the 1970s, which had serious methodological flaws. Subsequent research has not confirmed the synchronization; if two people's cycles ever start to run similarly, it's mostly a coincidence. Menstrual cycles vary in length and are influenced by a variety of factors, from hormonal changes to stress to health conditions.
Swimming during menstruation
Fortunately, myths about swimming during menstruation being inappropriate, dangerous or unhygienic are a thing of the past. In fact, swimming during menstruation is completely safe, especially in clean and well-maintained pools. Just choose the right menstrual aid, such as tampons , a menstrual cup or special menstrual panties designed for swimming, and you don't have to worry about leaks or discomfort. In addition, moving in the water can help relieve muscle tension, relieve abdominal pain and generally make your period days more pleasant.
Menstruation and irrationality
"She's irritable because she got her period today."
For many men, menstruation is an excuse to explain away women's behavior that they don't understand. Any "negative" reaction or emotion from a woman is automatically associated with her approaching menstruation. Not only at home, but also at work . Women's emotions are often belittled or belittled.
Yes, hormonal changes can affect mood ; you may feel irritable, anxious, or more sensitive before your period. But that doesn't mean women are incapable of logical thinking or overreacting. Sometimes they may just say things more quickly (and loudly) that they would otherwise keep to themselves.
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