Menstruation is still associated with many myths and stereotypes passed down from generation to generation. Some of these misconceptions influence how we, as a society, perceive one of the main biological processes, while 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... It's time to debunk some of these misconceptions once and for all. What of what you've heard is not true at all?
Impure menstrual blood
The idea that menstrual blood is "impure" has appeared in various cultures for centuries. Unlike blood from a wound, for example, it is considered something to be hidden. In reality, 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 entire myth of impurity stems from the taboo surrounding menstruation, not from scientific facts.
Equally ingrained is the myth that sex during menstruation is unhygienic. Menstrual blood is just another bodily fluid, and there's no reason to avoid sexual intercourse during menstruation if you and your partner don't want to. Some women even experience increased libido or greater sensitivity during menstruation, which can deepen intimacy. The most important thing is mutual comfort, open communication, and the use of protection – not only because of the risk of transmitting infections, but also if you want to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.
(Un)safe sex during menstruation
Many people believe that unprotected sex during menstruation is safe and that conception is not a risk. In reality, while the risk of pregnancy decreases, it is not completely ruled out. Sperm can survive in a woman's body for up to 5 days. If you have a short cycle and ovulation occurs soon after menstruation ends, sperm can still be "waiting" in the fallopian tubes just when an egg is released. This can result in an unplanned pregnancy.
Moreover, bleeding doesn't always mean menstruation. In some cases, it's spotting associated with, for example, ovulation. Unprotected sex during menstruation is therefore 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. However, severe pain that limits you in your daily life is certainly not something you should dismiss. Many women believe that pain is simply part of menstruation and therefore silently endure it without seeking professional help. However, more significant pain can be a sign of health problems such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or hormonal imbalance. If you are significantly bothered by pain, 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 genital area – including the labia, clitoris, urethral opening, and vaginal entrance. Whereas 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 cleaning products can disrupt this balance, which can lead to irritation, itching, or recurrent infections. For routine intimate hygiene, lukewarm water and possibly a mild soap designed for sensitive skin are sufficient. Internal douches or aggressive cosmetics are not needed; on the contrary, they can be harmful.
It is good to keep this sensitivity in mind when it comes to menstrual care. 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's why Femvie pads and tampons contain only 100% organic cotton, without fragrance, plastic, or synthetic fibers. This makes them breathable, skin-friendly, and suitable for women with sensitive mucous membranes. They help minimize the risk of irritation, allergies, or itching.
Cycle synchronization
You may have heard this 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 widespread, but there is no scientific evidence for it.
This myth originated from a study in the 1970s, which, however, had serious methodological flaws. Subsequent research did not confirm synchronization; if the cycles of two people sometimes start to occur similarly, it is mostly by chance. Menstrual cycles have different lengths and are influenced by a variety of factors, from hormonal changes to stress to health status.
Swimming during menstruation
Myths about bathing during menstruation being inappropriate, dangerous, or unhygienic are fortunately a thing of the past. In reality, swimming during menstruation is completely safe, especially in clean and well-maintained pools. Just choose a suitable menstrual product, such as tampons, a menstrual cup, or special menstrual swimwear designed for swimming, and you don't have to worry about leaks or discomfort. Movement in the water can also help relieve muscle tension, alleviate abdominal pain, and generally make 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 female behavior they don't understand. Any "negative" reaction or emotion from a woman is automatically associated with her approaching period. And not only at home, but also, for example, at work. Women's emotions are then often trivialized or dismissed.
Yes, hormonal changes can affect mood; irritability, anxiety, or increased sensitivity may appear before menstruation. But this does not mean that women are incapable of logical reasoning or that they overreact. Sometimes they may just say what they would otherwise keep to themselves more quickly (and loudly).
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Femvie products that may help you
We have selected products related to this topic that can support your health:
- 🌿 Organic pads — certified organic pads without chemicals
- 🌿 Organic tampons — organic tampons made from certified organic cotton
- 🌿 Ultra-thin organic panty liners — discreet protection for every day
- 📦 Worry-free subscription — your organic menstrual products automatically every month
- 🎁 Trial pack — try Femvie organic menstrual products
Frequently Asked Questions
What are organic menstrual products?
Organic menstrual products are made from certified organic cotton without pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals. GOTS certification guarantees eco-friendly processing from field to product.
Are organic tampons safer than conventional ones?
Yes. Conventional tampons may contain trace amounts of pesticides and synthetic fibers. Femvie organic tampons are certified, hypoallergenic, and gentler on intimate areas.
How does the Femvie subscription work?
With the Worry-Free Subscription, you set the delivery frequency, and your favorite organic products arrive automatically. You save time and never run out of menstrual products.
