Periods: the myths

People learn about periods from all walks of life. Some get the facts from reliable sources. Others aren't so lucky. Check out the biggest myths about periods.

• Virgins shouldn't wear tampons - MYTH
  Tampons can't take away your virginity. If you feel comfortable using tampons during your period then go ahead. The only way to lose your virginity is by having sex.
• You can't get pregnant during your period - MYTH
  It's not likely, but there's always a chance - particularly at the end of the menstrual cycle. What's more, unprotected sex increases the risk of exposure to sexually transmitted infections.
• Periods are unclean - MYTH
  Quite the opposite! Periods are a sign that the female body is functioning healthily.
• You shouldn't bathe or wash your hair during a period - MYTH
  Rubbish! Some women perspire more during their periods, or find their skin and hair becomes greasier, so it's important to keep clean and fresh.
• You should always rest during your period - MYTH
  Do whatever makes you feels comfortable, but don't be afraid to exercise. If anything, it's a good way of controlling PMS and cramps because it increases the supply of oxygen to the muscles.
• You can tell who is having their period - MYTH
  At any one time, a quarter of all women between the ages of about 10 and 50 will be having their periods, but you can't tell just by looking.
• A period lasts for exactly one week - MYTH
  The length of time you bleed is different from one woman to the next. The average duration may be four to five days, but it's perfectly natural for a period to last anything between three to eight days.
• You shouldn't go swimming during your period - MYTH
  Providing you wear a tampon, it's absolutely fine to get in the water. You have nothing to worry about.
• Pre-menstrual syndrome is all in the mind - MYTH
  Women experience certain hormonal changes roughly two weeks before a period is due. Often this can lead to feelings of irritability, depression and fatigue, as well as some weight changes. Some people call this premenstrual tension, or PMS. While most of the symptoms may affect your mind, the cause is very definitely physical!
• Women lose loads of blood during a period - MYTH
  It may feel like a lot, but the amount is actually much less than it looks. On average, only about four to six tablespoons of blood are lost.