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Menstrual blood flows from the uterus through the small opening in the cervix and passes out of the body through the vagina.
Most menstrual periods last from 3 to 5 days and it is common for many women and young girls to have mild pain with their periods a couple of days each month. Like lower back pain and cramping,
nausea, loose bowel movements/diarrhea, headaches, bloating in the belly area, all of which can be mild to severe.
Below are some common misconceptions about the menstruation period you may not know.
Misconception 1: Hot or warm water increases period flow. Hot water does not affect flow, the only thing that will change your flow is your own body, you can’t make it lighter nor heavier. And a nice warm bath or shower or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel will only help to ease the cramps.
Misconception 2: All Menstrual cycles are 28 days. That is only an average. Days in the menstrual circle vary from woman to woman. Your body will tell you what your cycle is, not other people.
Misconception 3: You cannot get pregnant during your period. This is not true, Women who have sex during their period should keep in mind that they can still get pregnant.
According to American Pregnancy Association, women who have a shorter cycle (21 to 24 days) have a higher likelihood of getting pregnant while having sex on their period. Once inside you, sperm
can live for 3-5 days. Ovulation can occur during, or soon after, the bleeding phase. If you don’t want to get pregnant, either don’t have sex, or use birth control.
Misconception 4: Menstrual blood is different from regular blood. Menstrual blood is regular blood. This myth probably gained traction because menstrual blood flows from the vagina. And because the vagina is a normal part of the female body, there is nothing unusual or wrong with menstrual blood.
If you have an irregular period, talk to your doctor. It can take anywhere from six months to a year to become regular after the first time you get it. And, for some girls, it never becomes completely regular. There are lots of things, including stress, illness and intense exercise, that can mess with your monthly cycle which is the more reason why you should consult a gynaecologist.
Additional Source: Green News
Compiled by Temidayo Williams (Health Journo Reporter)
