Periods have been wrapped in mystery, taboo, awkward health class diagrams, and some truly wild myths. And the thing is? A lot of those myths still float around today, shaping how people feel about their own bodies.

So let’s gently untangle the nonsense from the actual science.

Myth #1: Period Blood Is “Dirty”

The truth: Menstrual blood is not dirty.

It’s simply a mix of blood, uterine lining, and cervical mucus — the same lining your body built in case of pregnancy. When pregnancy doesn’t happen, your body sheds it. That’s it. That’s the whole plot.

There’s no toxin purge. No “impurities leaving the body.” Just biology doing its monthly reset.

The idea that it’s dirty comes from cultural stigma — not medical fact.

Myth #2: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period

The truth: It’s unlikely — but not impossible.

Sperm can live inside the body for up to five days. If someone has a shorter cycle and ovulates soon after their period ends, pregnancy can happen.

So while the odds are lower during menstruation, it’s not a guaranteed “safe zone.”

Bodies do not run on perfect calendars.

Myth #3: Period Pain Is Just Something You Have to “Deal With”

The truth: Some cramping is normal. Debilitating pain is not.

Mild to moderate cramps happen because the uterus contracts to shed its lining. But if someone is:

Missing work or school
Vomiting from pain
Unable to function normally

That could signal conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances.

Pain shouldn’t be dismissed just because it’s common.

Myth #4: You Shouldn’t Exercise on Your Period

The truth: Movement can actually help.

Light to moderate exercise often reduces cramps, improves mood, and boosts energy. Walking, stretching, yoga, or strength training can all be beneficial.

That said — if someone feels exhausted or crampy, rest is also valid. It’s about listening to the body, not forcing a workout because a myth said you shouldn’t.

Myth #5: PMS Is “All in Your Head”

The truth: Premenstrual Syndrome is hormonally driven.

Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can impact mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels. For some, symptoms are mild. For others, they can be intense.

There’s also PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), a more severe form that significantly affects mental health.

Hormones are powerful. Dismissing PMS as dramatics minimizes real biological shifts.