The menstrual cycle is a natural part of many women's lives, and yet there are many misconceptions about it. These myths not only lead to false knowledge, but can also negatively affect health and quality of life. It's time to put the facts on the table - well-founded, relevant and practical.
Myth 1: “You can’t get pregnant during your period.”
- Fact check: It's rare, but certainly possible. Sperm can survive in the female body for up to five days. If ovulation occurs shortly after the period, fertilization could occur. Especially in women with shorter cycles (e.g. 21 days), ovulation is closer to menstruation, which increases the risk.
- Why this is important: Anyone using contraception should be careful throughout the entire cycle. Barrier methods such as condoms offer additional protection, regardless of the phase of the cycle.
Myth 2: “The perfect cycle always lasts 28 days.”
- Fact check: The average is 28 days, but anything between 21 and 35 days is considered normal. Cycle lengths can change due to stress, travel, illness or lifestyle changes. Some women have permanently shorter or longer cycles without this being a problem.
- Why this is important: Knowing your own cycle helps you to identify deviations. However, severe irregularities or cycles outside the normal range can indicate health problems such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or hormonal imbalances. Cycle tracking apps can help you identify patterns.
Myth 3: “PMS is just an excuse or imagination.”
- Fact check: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a medically recognized diagnosis and affects around 75-90% of menstruating people to varying degrees. The symptoms range from emotional fluctuations to headaches and sleep problems. In a severe form, PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), the symptoms can significantly limit everyday life.
- Why this is important: PMS symptoms are not "normal" but rather an indication that the body needs support. Regular exercise, a magnesium-rich diet and stress management can help. If symptoms are severe, a doctor should be consulted.
Myth 4: “Tampons that are worn for a long time are safe.”
- Fact check: Tampons may be convenient, but they carry risks such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS). This rare but serious syndrome can be caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus when tampons are worn for too long (more than 8 hours).
- Why it's important: Make sure to change tampons regularly. Alternatives like menstrual cups are not only more sustainable, but also safer, as they don't use absorbent material that could grow bacteria.
Myth 5: “Menstruation cleanses the body of toxins.”
- Fact check: Menstruation is not a "cleansing process". It is the natural breakdown of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur. It has no direct influence on the detoxification of the body - this task is carried out by organs such as the liver and kidneys.
- Why it's important: Such myths can lead women to go on unnecessary "cleansing diets" or detoxes that are neither necessary nor helpful. Instead, you should focus on eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated.
Myth 6: “Menstrual cramps are just part of life.”
- Fact check: Many women experience cramps during their period, but severe pain that interferes with everyday life is not normal. Such symptoms may indicate endometriosis, adenomyosis or other conditions.
- Why it's important: Talk to a doctor if pain is severe or worsening. Modern treatment options - from pain management to hormone therapies - can help improve quality of life.
Myth 7: “You shouldn’t exercise during your period.”
- Fact check: Exercise can relieve menstrual cramps and improve mood. Moderate activities such as yoga, swimming or light jogging are particularly recommended. In the follicular phase, when energy levels increase, more intense exercise is often possible.
- Why this is important: Regular exercise can stabilize the entire cycle and reduce PMS symptoms. Listen to your body: some days rest is more important, others exercise helps.