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- While menstruation is a normal part of life for many women, it still seems to be a taboo subject that many are uncomfortable openly discussing.
- Many myths surround menstruation, and Kotex's Caitlin Meredith shines a light on three of the most common.
- These myths include exercising during your period, vaginal discharge and period pain.
Menstruation is a normal part of life for many women, and yet it's still something that most are afraid or embarrassed to discuss. Because of this, there's also a lack of education about periods and how they actually work, meaning that it's easy for misconceptions and myths to spread.
Kotex marketing manager Caitlin Meredith highlights three common menstruation myths.
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Myth #1: Exercising during your period can be harmful to your body
Being on your period should not stop you from engaging in physical activity. In fact, research suggests that exercising during your period could help ease cramps and boost mood.
"It's necessary for women to be mindful of any individual physical limitations and to avoid overexertion during their menstrual cycle, but it's equally important for girls and women to better connect with their bodies and live more consciously rather than avoiding doing the things they love," says Meredith.
Myth #2: Vaginal discharge is always a sign of infection
Experiencing some discharge is a normal bodily function. Some women experience vaginal discharge throughout different parts of their cycle, which is usually no cause for alarm.
There are different types of discharge, ranging from white to grey, and each can indicate something different. It's important to be able to distinguish between all of them.
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Myth #3: Period pains are the same for everyone
It is incorrect to assume that everyone's period pains are the same. Most women who suffer from pains during their period may describe it as abdominal cramps or back pain, but everyone experiences different symptoms during their menstruation at different intensities.
Period pains become a concern when they're at the level where they start affecting your day-to-day activities. If this happens, it's important to speak to a medical professional.
"Every myth busted is a step towards creating schools, workplaces and societies that are more in tune and respectful of the needs of young girls and women," adds Meredith.
Source: Distributed by MSL Group on behalf of Kotex
