Fact vs Fiction : Top 5 Period Myths Doctors Want You To Stop Believing

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The Period Positive campaign of Boldsky aims to break menstrual taboos, promote menstrual health awareness, and foster open conversations around periods with dignity and pride.

Photo Credit: Pexels

This Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed globally on 28th May, the message is loud and clear- 'Together for a period-friendly world'. But what does that world look like? Boldsky caught up with Dr. Neema Sharma, Director and Unit Head at Fortis, Vasant Kunj, to get expert insights on the do's, don'ts, and deeper impact of menstrual hygiene. As the world rallies around inclusivity and dignity for menstruators, Dr. Sharma breaks it down with refreshing clarity and urgency.

Beyond The Product : Hygiene Is Non-Negotiable

Whether you use sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or cloth napkins, one rule remains universal, change them frequently. "Whatever menstrual product is being used, it should ideally be changed every 4 to 6 hours even if it appears dry," stresses Dr. Sharma. "Waiting too long invites bacterial and fungal infections, vaginal irritation, and in extreme cases, conditions like toxic shock syndrome, especially with tampons".

She explains, "Tampons should never be left in for more than 8 hours. Leaving one in for over 24 hours can be life-threatening. Similarly, menstrual cups need to be emptied every 6 to 8 hours depending on the flow."

The Bigger Picture : Access And Clean Facilities

She also points it's not just about the product, it's about where and how you use it. "Women and girls need safe, private spaces with access to water for washing hands and cleaning the genital area," Dr. Sharma says. "Schools, workplaces, and public toilets must ensure accessibility and sanitation. Without it, even the best product fails to protect".

Hand Hygiene : The First Line Of Defence

This may sound basic, but Dr. Sharma can't stress it enough-wash your hands before and after handling any menstrual product. Skipping this step can lead to urinary tract infections, uterine infections, and even long-term complications like infertility. "It's a small habit with massive consequences," she adds.

Cloth Pads And Menstrual Cup : Eco-Friendly But With Care

Reusable options like cloth napkins and menstrual cups are gaining popularity and for good reason. They're cost-effective, environment-friendly, and free from harmful chemicals. But they come with responsibility.

Do: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Dry in a clean, shaded area and store properly.

Don't: Use post-delivery or after a miscarriage, flush them down the toilet, or dry them in direct sunlight.

Reusable cloth pads offer comfort and sustainability but must be cleaned and stored hygienically to prevent infections.

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Busting Period Myths : Exercise, Bathing, And Hair Washing

From avoiding workouts to skipping hair washes, many practices around menstruation are rooted in outdated myths. Dr. Sharma sets the record straight: "Women can exercise, bathe, and wash their hair during periods. In fact, maintaining proper hygiene is especially important."

She adds, "When it comes to exercise, certain yoga asanas or movements that involve pelvic lifts should be avoided during menstruation. Other forms of exercise can be performed safely."

The Emotional Toll Of Taboos

Despite progress, outdated menstrual taboos still dominate many households. "Not entering kitchens, temples, or being told not to cook-these are cultural beliefs with no scientific basis," says Dr. Sharma. More than inconvenient, these practices can deeply affect a girl's mental and emotional well-being, especially during her first periods.

"These taboos contribute to school dropouts and social isolation. Some girls don't have access to sanitary napkins and resort to unsafe alternatives like old clothes or even banana leaves," she says, her voice firm. The result? A crisis that's as much psychological as it is physical.

Everyday Dos And Don'ts For A Healthier Period

Dr. Sharma offers a practical checklist:

Do:

• Change products every 4-6 hours.
• Discard used products properly-wrap in paper, place in a bin.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid moisture build-up.
• Keep the genital area clean; use mild, unscented cleansers if needed.

Don't:

• Use scented products; they irritate the skin.
• Flush menstrual products-they clog plumbing and harm the environment.
• Ignore hygiene just because flow is light.

Final Word : Periods Are Not A Problem

"A woman having her period is a sign of good reproductive health," Dr. Sharma says simply. That truth, uncomplicated, honest, and powerful needs to be echoed louder in homes, schools, and society at large. Education, empathy, and open conversations can change everything.

Photo Credit: Pexels

Menstrual Hygiene Day reminds us that dignity begins with awareness, and a period-friendly world is not a dream, it's a choice. One we all have to make, together.