Periods are still taboo in many societies of the world. In India also people do hesitate in talking about this subject. Since this is never discussed openly, there are confusions about it in the minds of the people. Over time these illusions took the shape of myths about periods or menstrual cycles. Like any other health problem, girls should be encouraged to talk about periods. Parents and the education system reluctance on this topic could be attributed to the spread of such rumours.
Although there are many superstitions or rumours are present about periods we will tell you about 5 myths in India that have no scientific basis. Despite this, they are being followed only because the elderly women of our house have been believing in them.
Menstruation should last for four days
Every woman’s period cycle is different. It totally depends on your body to body. A woman may experience 3days cycle, while a woman may experience periods for more than 4 days. Normally the period cycle lasts for 2-8 days. However, if your cycle lasts less than 2 and more than 8 days, then you should contact the doctor.
Avoid sour things
There are many restrictions regarding food and drink during periods. Some women avoid eating sour during periods. Girls are instructed not to eat sour things like pickles, lemon or other citrus items. However, there is no cogent scientific evidence to corroborate the fact that you cannot eat such things. All these are the rules made by our ancestors, without knowing the truth of which people have started believing them. Rather today it is necessary that women take a healthy and balanced diet during periods. Doctors also advise avoiding the consumption of junk food to avoid problems related to periods.
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Impure blood
Even today in our house, grandmothers strongly believe that period blood is impure. But it’s not like that. Rather, this myth needs to be busted. Period blood is not dirty nor does it contains any kind of toxins of the body. Yes, the blood contains uterine tissue, mucus lining and bacteria, but they do not pollute the blood. Those who call it impure should understand that it is a physiological process, which one should not be ashamed to talk about. Untouchability associated with periods is purely is a myth.
Do not shampoo
Menstruation has nothing to do with bathing, washing the head, using makeup products, or personal grooming. This is a misconception, which has remained in the minds of people for a long time. The truth is that women should maintain cleanliness by regularly cleaning the intimate area. This will help women a lot to avoid many infections attributed to periods.
Avoid workout
Menstruation is still treated as a sickness in many societies and women are advised to stay in bed and avoid exercise. However, there is nothing we can not do during our period. It’s not a disability and it’s not a weakness. Regular exercise helps reduce the intensity of menstrual cramps. In many instances, women have competed in the Olympics and won on their periods.
There are many other such rumours, which people have spread about periods. But if you are a woman of today’s age, then you should not trust those myths unless there is any scientific proof supporting the fact.