Period, also known as menstruation, menstrual period, cycle or menses is when the uterine lining sheds and turns into blood. It is a regular vaginal bleeding that take place as part of a woman's monthly cycle. The first time when a girl has its period is known as menarche. It typically begins between the ages of 10 and 16, with an average age of 12 years, then continues until the menopausal age at about 51 years. Even if we are on this modern time, there are still period myths that we can hear from our grandmother or even our mothers. Take a closer look at some of the most common fallacies about periods and know the facts.

• Leaping 3steps from the stairs so that after 3days your period stops.

This can be risky as you might get hurt and might cause an accident. The length of a girl's period is unpredictable. Fact is that Normal period last from 3-5 days, although some might extend up to 7 days. Usually, there are 21 to 35 days between periods.

• Taking a bath makes you go crazy and stops your menses.

Fact is that proper hygiene is very important in these tough days of a women. Taking a bath: washes away bacteria especially on your intimate parts, prevents infection and it makes you feel fresh and comfortable.

• Wiping your face with your first menses so you won’t get pimples.

This a big no, and very unsanitary.  Fact is that hormonal changes, genes, diet and no proper hygiene are causes in having pimples.

• Going near a garden or a plant can cause withering of plants.

Fact is that it is typically due to under watering, overwatering, or too much direct sunlight or the weather that a plant withers. Girls have nothing to do with it!

• You’ll be a bad luck.

Definitely a silly assertion. Why blame one’s misfortune to having a period, what’s the connection?

• Attending a wake and stepping on a poop can make your period stinky.

Fact: Body fluids have distinct odors, and the majority of the time they are not very pleasant. The same holds true for your period. So, the smell will be present whether or not you go to a wake or step on a poop.

Even though many of us find these period myths amusing, many women and girls continue to believe them today. These period myths and stigma should end! During this monthly cycle, a women’s body and health is prone to bacteria and infection. Putting proper hygiene when having a period is the topmost concern and priority. Girls should manage their health and well-being when having a Period.

So, having a period must be about having that next level of self-pampering, self-love, self-care, and confidence! Girls, be well informed!

AA I Floricel N. Denopol, RND

References

Physiology, Menarche

Amy E. Lacroix; Hurria Gondal; Karlie R. Shumway; Michelle D. Langaker.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470216/

Period-Related Superstitions in the Philippines

By Sinaya Cup

https://www.sinayacup.com/superstitions/

UNICEF partners with the Australian Government to expand sexual and reproductive health support for girls through a mobile application across Indo-Pacific region

https://www.unicef.org/philippines/press-releases/unicef-partners-australian-government-expand-sexual-and-reproductive-health-support

Doctor debunks Filipino period myths

By obstetrician-gynecologist Ruzabeth Cuya

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/healthandwellness/713079/doctor-debunks-filipino-period-myths-like-wiping-blood-on-your-face-and-skipping-baths/story/