Myths vs Facts: Does Your Period Stop In Water?

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When it comes to periods, myths and misconceptions floating around are plenty! From being 'impure' to 'not eating pickles' the myths are just senseless even. One of the most common questions that arise is whether your period stops in water.

What happens when you are on period but want to swim? Is the pool gonna be all red?

In this article, we will debunk this myth and provide you with the facts. So, let's dive in (get it?) and separate fact from fiction!

1. Myth: Your Period Stops in Water

Imagine you're at the beach, taking a dip in the ocean. Your period may appear to have stopped while you're in the water, but as soon as you step out, you'll notice that it continues as normal [1].

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, your period does not stop once you enter the water. While it may seem like your flow has ceased, it is simply the water pressure that temporarily prevents blood from flowing out of your body. However, once you exit the water, the flow will resume as usual.

2. Myth: Water Cleanses Your Period

Some people believe that swimming in a pool can clean their period but how gross is that, right? It's important to remember that water is not a substitute for proper menstrual care and hygiene.

Fact: Another misconception is that water can clean or wash away your period. In reality, water cannot cleanse your menstrual flow. Menstruation is a natural bodily process, and the only way to manage it is through proper menstrual hygiene practices like using sanitary products.

3. Myth: Swimming During Your Period is Unhygienic

Fact: Many individuals worry that swimming during their period is unhygienic or can cause infections. This is simply not true. As long as you use the appropriate menstrual products, such as tampons or menstrual cups, and change them regularly, swimming during your period is perfectly safe and hygienic.

Olympic athletes often swim during their periods while competing at the highest level. If it were unhygienic or unsafe, they wouldn't be doing it.

4. Myth: Sharks are Attracted to Menstruation

Fact: One of the most enduring myths is the belief that sharks can detect and are attracted to menstrual blood. However, this is largely a myth. Sharks are not specifically attracted to menstrual blood, and the chances of encountering a shark during your period are extremely rare [2].

It's important to remember that sharks have highly sensitive senses, and they are more likely to be attracted to other scents, such as the smell of food or chemicals.

5. Myth: Menstruation Stops in Water Due to Temperature Changes

Fact: Some individuals believe that the change in temperature when entering the water causes the period to stop. However, period flow is not affected by temperature changes. The temporary pause in flow while in water is solely due to water pressure.

Just like your period doesn't stop when you take a hot shower, it won't stop in the water either. Temperature changes do not have any impact on menstrual flow.

On A Final Note...

Now that we have debunked the myth surrounding periods and water, you can feel confident in knowing that your menstruation will not magically stop in the water.

Your period is a natural process, and there's no need to let myths deter you from leading an active and fulfilling life, even in the water!