15 Menstrual Myths That Need to Bleed Out (Immediately)

Let’s face it—periods are a monthly rollercoaster most women ride without seat belts, often while carrying the emotional baggage of chocolate cravings and cramps. But as if bleeding wasn’t enough, society decided to throw in a period-load of myths. Some are laughably outdated, others are straight-up bizarre. Let’s bust these myths like we bust open a new pack of pads on Day 1.

🩸 1. “You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period”

Oh sweet summer child. You absolutely can get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during your period. Sperm can live up to 5 days, and if you ovulate early? Surprise, baby! So unless you're trying to create a little “Menstruella,” wrap it up.

🌊 2. “Sharks Can Smell Your Period Blood”

You are not a bleeding fish. Sharks don’t care about your cycle. In fact, you’re more likely to be struck by lightning twice than be attacked by a shark during your period. So yes, you can go swimming without becoming a human snack.

🚫 3. “You Shouldn’t Wash Your Hair on Your Period”

Your scalp doesn't care what your uterus is doing. Wash your hair, wash your worries, and for heaven’s sake, wash off the sweat from PMS mood swings. This myth is popular in some cultures, but there's zero science behind it.

🥵 4. “You Can’t Exercise During Your Period”

Sis, if Serena Williams can win a Grand Slam while on her period, you can definitely stretch. Light exercise like yoga or walking may even ease cramps. Just avoid flipping upside down in yoga class—gravity is not your friend that day.

🩹 5. “Period Blood is Dirty”

This one’s a whole lie wrapped in patriarchy. Period blood isn’t “dirty” or “toxic”—it’s just blood, tissue, and some uterine lining. Basically, it’s your body saying, “No fertilization? Cool. Spring cleaning time.”

🍋 6. “Drinking Cold Water Delays Your Period”

What is this—Harry Potter and the Frozen Uterus? There’s no evidence cold drinks affect your cycle. Your uterus isn’t a thermostat. If you want a cold Coke, have it. Just don't pour it directly into your uterus.

🍳 7. “You Can’t Cook During Your Period”

Unless your uterus is in the kitchen messing with the stove, this myth needs to retire. Some traditional beliefs say menstruating women “spoil food,” especially pickles. The only thing you might spoil is your mood if someone tells you this.

🏊 8. “You Can’t Swim on Your Period”

Yes, you can swim. No, the pool won't turn red like a horror movie scene. Tampons and menstrual cups are perfect for swimming. Just don’t cannonball into the water yelling, “BEHOLD, MY CRIMSON WAVE!” (Unless you’re into drama.)

🔴 9. “Every Woman Has a 28-Day Cycle”

Nope. The 28-day cycle is a textbook average, not a golden rule. Some cycles are 21 days, some 35. Your uterus is not Alexa—it doesn’t follow a calendar perfectly. Even the moon doesn’t get it right every time.

🎭 10. “PMS is All in Your Head”

Tell that to the three tubs of ice cream I demolished and the person I nearly cried on because they moved my charger. PMS is real, backed by hormones like estrogen and progesterone doing cha-cha inside your brain.

🧚 11. “Using Tampons Will Take Your Virginity”

Virginity is not a physical object that can be lost in a tampon. The hymen can stretch, tear, or remain intact for various reasons—none of which are your business, Auntie. Use what makes you comfortable. Tampons don’t carry relationship status.

🧼 12. “You Need Special Soap to Clean Your Vagina During Your Period”

Your vagina is self-cleaning. Don’t mess with it using rose-scented, pH-destroying potions. Just wash the outer part (vulva) with water or mild soap. Anything more, and your uterus will file a complaint.

🍫 13. “Craving Junk Food Is Just Excuse-Eating”

Excuse me, Brenda, but have you met progesterone? It messes with hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin, making you feel ravenous. That chocolate isn’t emotional; it’s hormonal. Respect the snack.

🤐 14. “You Should Hide Your Period”

This one comes from the same era as dial-up internet. Why should you hide a biological function that happens to half the population for nearly 40 years of their lives? Periods aren’t shameful. If you can bleed for five days and not die, you’re a superhero. Period.

🔁 15. “Periods Sync When Women Live Together”

The great Menstrual Synchrony Theory—sounds like a Netflix drama. It's a widely believed idea that women’s cycles sync up. But scientific studies show it's likely just coincidence. Or maybe your uterus is competitive. Who knows?

💡 So, What’s the Takeaway?

Periods aren’t mysterious, dirty, or dangerous. They’re normal, natural, and at times, a bit dramatic. And that’s okay. What’s not okay is letting outdated myths make you feel gross, ashamed, or like you’re not allowed to eat pickles.

✅ Here's What You Should Do:

Talk openly about periods. Let’s make it less taboo and more Tuesday.

Teach young girls and boys the facts—not fear and fiction.

Use whatever menstrual product you're comfortable with.

Don’t let Aunt Mythica ruin your cycle with nonsense.

🩸 Real Talk, Real Bodies

Let’s stop whispering the word “period” like it’s Voldemort. Let’s normalize talking about cramps, flow, leaks, and favorite pads. Periods are a part of life—not a curse from ancient ancestors who didn’t understand how ovaries work.

Whether you’re curled up with a heating pad, dancing with your Diva Cup, or googling “can you survive off chocolate alone”—just know you’re not alone.

And remember: your uterus may be dramatic, but she’s got your back every cycle of the way.

Got more period myths you’ve heard? Drop them in the comments! Let’s bust them together—one pad at a time. 🩸✨