4 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Periods

Periods aren’t as enjoyable and are nothing like the over-ambitious advertisements they show on television and in films.

However, a regular, monthly visit is your body’s way of telling you that it is healthy and doing its job the way it is supposed to; isn’t nature just spectacular?

Women have approximately 450 periods during the span of their lifetime, but there are still some myths and misconceptions that need addressing. Here are some things about periods that may come as a surprise to you: 

1. Yes, you can still get pregnant. Although it is less likely that you will conceive during these 3-7 days, it is not altogether impossible.
   
   So, to prevent an unplanned pregnancy, make sure to use contraceptives always, no matter what time of month it is!
   
   
2. Did you know the weather also plays a big role in your menstruation? A colder climate lengthens the duration of your period, and also increases the flow. As the days get shorter and darker, the gloominess combined with fluctuating hormones significantly impacts your mood.
   
   Without sunshine, which is known to produce dopamine in our body, you will probably experience more severe pre-menstrual and menstrual symptoms.
   
   
3. It’s not just you – period poop is a thing. When you get your period, your body produces some hormone-like compounds known as prostaglandins. These compounds trigger the uterus to contract (hence explaining the cramps), and also travel to the bowels, prompting more movement.
   
   In fact, the out of the blue bouts of diarrhea that you get on your period are because of these prostaglandins. It could even be a sign that you have large amounts of prostaglandins floating through your body.
   
   
4. Your flow is much lesser than you think it is. We’re all familiar with the spine-chilling moments: sneezing too loudly on your period or getting up too fast – it feels like you’re literally bleeding out.
   
   Although it seems like a lot of blood, you lose only about 2-3 tablespoons during these 3-7 days. If you feel like you’re having a particularly heavy flow day, make sure to stock on your GoPadFree™ Period Panties to ensure a leak-proof cycle! (And don’t worry, it’s not a bloodbath down there.)

Were you aware of these 4 facts about your period? It is important we remain aware of our bodies and let nature run its course – however, it is also important that we do so based on scientifically proven facts rather than myths and misconceptions.