It’s Time to Break Free from Menstrual Stigma
How many times have you heard these?
- “Don’t enter the temple when you’re on your period.”
- “Stay out of the kitchen.”
- “Don’t touch the pickle—it will spoil.”
For generations, Indian women have been told that periods make them “impure”—but here’s the truth: menstrual health is 100% natural, scientific, and nothing to be ashamed of.
Yet, millions of women in India still face menstruation stigma, restrictions, and misinformation about their periods. Let’s bust these myths once and for all.
Myth #1: Periods Make You “Impure”
The Lie: Many believe that menstrual blood is dirty or that a woman is “unclean” during her period.
- The Truth:
- Menstrual blood is the same as normal blood—it’s just mixed with the uterine lining.
- There’s nothing toxic, dirty, or impure about it.
- Your body is simply doing its job to prepare for a healthy reproductive cycle and support your overall women’s sexual health.
Myth #2: You Should Stay Out of Temples & Kitchens
The Lie: Women on their period are told to avoid temples, poojas, and even cooking because they are “unclean.”
- The Truth:
- In ancient times, these rules were meant to give women rest, not shame them.
- There is no religious or scientific reason for banning menstruating women from temples.
- Cooking? Your hands don’t stop working just because you’re on your period.
Myth #3: Menstrual Pain Is “Normal” & You Should Just Tolerate It
The Lie: “Every woman has cramps, so stop complaining.”
- The Truth:
- Severe period pain is NOT normal.
- It could be a sign of PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalance.
- Ignoring your pain can lead to long-term health complications.
Myth #4: You Shouldn’t Talk About Periods Openly
The Lie: Girls are taught to hide their pads, feel embarrassed to ask for help, and avoid discussing periods with family members.
- The Truth:
- Talking about periods is the first step to breaking the stigma.
- Menstruation affects half the population—why should it be a secret?
- Open conversations can help normalize period health, hygiene, and medical care.
- Join our supportive community where women talk about their health without fear or shame.
Myth #5: Cold Foods & Exercise Make Periods Worse
The Lie: “Don’t drink cold water—it will stop your flow.”, “Don’t exercise—you’ll bleed more.”
- The Truth:
- Cold food does not affect your period.
- Exercise can actually reduce cramps and improve mood.
- Staying hydrated and active helps regulate your cycle and supports overall women’s sexual health.
Want to learn more? Speak to an expert and get science-backed advice on menstrual health.
References:
- https://www.starhealth.in/blog/is-menstrual-blood-impure/
- https://www.hoshyoga.org/why-girls-not-allowed-in-kitchen-during-periods/
- https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-period-stigma-5116231
