Period comes with a lot of myths and misconceptions, among which ‘bathing on period’ is one. We often heard aunts and grandmothers saying and warning that one should not take baths, perform certain rituals, or visit certain places during periods as they can cause harm.
While most of these myths are baseless with no logical reasons, others might have some sense. In this article, we will discuss one of the most frequently asked questions, can you take a bath on your period?
Can I Take a Bath on My Period?
Getting it straight, bathing on period is not only safe but beneficial, too. Whether you bathe or take a shower, keeping your body parts clean not just on periods but every day is essential.
Period myths are passed down through generations across different cultures. In earlier days, the topic itself was considered taboo to discuss. Women at home talk about it in hush-hush and provide the same information to their daughters and sisters as given to them.
However, as medical science progresses and women get more informed and educated, menstruation is not considered dirty anymore.
The two most popular myths about bathing on period are-
- It stops blood flow
- It makes bleeding heavy
However, there is no scientific evidence that proves any of these. In fact, science has proved that bathing doesn’t impact blood flow, and it should be done to maintain hygiene (1).
Whether you soak yourself in water or not, the uterus will keep functioning as it is destined to. The lining of the uterus will continue to break down and shed.
A study revealed that there is a correlation between high temperature and blood circulation (2).
In the heat, the blood flow may show a slight increase in the body, but there is no evidence proving the same for the menstrual blood, so whether you bathe in hot water or cold water, you won’t experience heavy bleeding.
Other common myths associated with bathing on period that are not true include the following-
- Do not wash your hair on the period
- Wash hair only on the first day of the period
- Bathing on period may hamper your fertility
- Do not enter showers, pools, or open water during the period
Benefits of Taking Bath During Period
Now that we know that the answer to can you take a bath on your period is a big YES, here are a few benefits that you need to know and tell others about-
1. It keeps Infections at Bay
Improper hygiene during periods is one of the foremost reasons for getting major skin infections. The chances of yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and urinary tract infections increase when you do not clean your private parts, especially during periods.
2. Keep Odor at Bay
Period blood may give a weird smell, especially when you do not change your undergarments daily and clean the vagina. However, bathing eradicates this smell and ensures you do not smell strange.
3. Keep Cramps at Bay
A hot bath is recommended when your muscles feel tense, as hot water relaxes them and provides huge instant relief. If you suffer from period cramps, taking a hot bath relieves the symptoms and keeps the pains and aches away.
In fact, heat therapy is considered highly beneficial to combat menstrual pain, cramps, and lower back pain associated with it (3).
4. Improves Blood Circulation
Taking a hot water bath helps in improving blood circulation in the body. During periods, some women complain of heaviness around the pelvis, which occurs due to blood and fluid retention.
In such cases, taking a hot water bath takes off the pressure from the nerves by improving blood circulation and thus provides relief.
5. Improves Digestion
Some women experience constipation, bloating, and gas during periods due to hormonal upsurge in the body. However, taking a bath helps to combat all these issues.
At the same time, women with hemorrhoids find instant relief after taking hot water baths during periods.
How to Manage Blood While Taking a Bath on Your Period?
If you find it a little awkward to soak in bloody water in your bathtub, wear a tampon or menstrual cup. These products do not allow blood to flow out from the vagina. In this way, you can stay soaked for as long as possible.
If you think period blood is dirty, fret not. It contains very little blood and more of other vaginal secretions and cells from the lining of the uterus.
Can You Take a Shower During This Period?
If you want to maintain proper cleanliness and hygiene during periods, the best is to take a quick shower. It is also a good option when you have heavy periods.
Do not worry about the blood flow as it will come out from the vagina and make its way to the drain hole with water.
Conclusion
Bathing on a period is completely safe; in fact, it is a necessity that every woman should abide by. Apart from maintaining hygiene, bathing also helps in combating some of the common discomforts of periods, such as abdominal cramps and lower back pain.
If you don’t want to soak in bloody water in the tub, take a shower and keep yourself clean. You can also use tampons and menstrual cups to stop blood from flowing while bathing.
Maintaining proper period hygiene by bathing is the first step to feeling good about yourself. It will make you feel and smell fresh and prevent most of the skin infections that may occur due to lack of cleanliness during periods.
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