Period myth-busters
When it comes to periods there’s lots of confusing information out there, some of which is completely untrue.
So let’s talk about some of the most common myths and find out what’s fact and what’s fiction.
Myth: You can’t swim whilst on your period.
Fact: There’s no reason to not go swimming when you have your period! Swimming can actually be a great way to alleviate period pain and improve your mood. You can’t go in the water with a pad on, but you can use a tampon or menstrual cup. If you’re not comfortable using either of these and your flow is lighter, the pressure from the water should stop your flow whilst you’re swimming.
Myth: People will be able to tell I’m on my period whilst exercising.
Fact: No one can tell when you’ve started your period unless you choose to tell them!
Myth: You can’t have a bath or shower when you’re on your period.
Fact: You can and should have baths and showers when on your period. Only a very tiny amount of blood will come out – you won’t even notice.
Myth: You can hold in your period.
Fact: You cannot hold in your period! Period blood exits the body from the vagina which doesn’t have ability to control when period blood is released.
Myth: Exercise is bad for you when you have your period.
Fact: If you have cramps during your period, exercise can be an effective cure, releasing endorphins into the blood and relieving cramps.
Myth: Exercising whilst on my period will cause leaking.
Fact: When exercising during your period you’re no more/less likely to leak than when doing other daily activities. If you’re worried about leaking just make sure you’re wearing a pad that is super-absorbent and moulds to your body shape, or a tampon or menstrual cup.
Myth: Everyone gets their period at the same time each month
Fact: Cycles vary from person to person and can be anywhere from 25 to 35 days long, meaning everyone gets their periods at different times. In the first few years your cycle is likely to be very irregular, but it should then settle down.
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