Period Myths and Facts Every Girl Should Know
By Dr. Emily Casterline, Bloom Pediatrics Pediatrician
Periods are one of the biggest changes that happen during puberty, but for many girls, they can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even a little scary. That’s because there are so many myths and misunderstandings out there—passed down through whispers, movies, or even from well-meaning friends.
The truth is: periods are completely normal, healthy, and nothing to be ashamed of. Learning the facts will help you feel more confident and in control of your body. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about periods and uncover the truth together.
Myth #1: Getting your period means you’re “grown-up” now.
Fact: Your first period (also called menarche) is just one part of puberty—it doesn’t mean you’re suddenly an adult.
Most girls get their first period between ages 9 and 15. The average age for girls to start their period in the US is 11.9 years old. Many girls follow family trends, if your mom was an early bloomer, then you will likely be an early bloomer. If all the girls in your family were late bloomers, then you will likely be a late bloomer. When you get your period, your body is maturing, but that doesn’t mean you’re ready for adult responsibilities. You’re still growing physically, emotionally, and mentally. Getting your period is a sign your body is healthy and working the way it should—not a green light to skip childhood.
👉 Remember: You can still enjoy being a kid. Periods don’t make you less playful, less fun, or less yourself.
Myth #2: You should hide your period.
Fact: Periods are natural and nothing to be ashamed of.
Many cultures treat periods as something secret or embarrassing, which can make girls feel uncomfortable talking about them. But menstruation is just a sign of a healthy reproductive system. About half the people in the world will have periods at some point!
👉 Tip: Practice saying the word “period” out loud—it helps remove the stigma. Talking openly with a parent, trusted adult, or friend can make periods feel normal (because they are!).
Myth #3: You can’t swim, play sports, or be active during your period.
Fact: You can do everything you normally do—exercise, swim, run, or dance—while on your period.
Some people believe periods mean “rest only,” but movement actually helps reduce cramps and boost your mood. With the right products (like tampons, menstrual cups, or period swimwear), swimming is totally possible too.
👉 Bonus fact: Exercise increases blood circulation and releases endorphins (your body’s feel-good chemicals), which can make your period symptoms easier to handle.
Myth #4: Period blood is dirty.
Fact: Period blood is not dirty—it’s mostly blood, tissue, and fluid from your uterus.
The uterus builds up a lining each month to prepare for pregnancy. If no pregnancy happens, the lining sheds through the vagina, creating a period. It’s the body’s natural cleaning cycle, not “bad” or “toxic” blood.
👉 Remember: Period blood may look different (bright red, dark red, or even brownish), and that’s completely normal.
Myth #5: Everyone’s period is the same.
Fact: Periods are unique—timing, flow, and symptoms vary from person to person.
Some girls bleed for three days, others for a week. Some have heavy flow, others light. Cramps may be strong for one person and barely noticeable for another. It can even change month to month for the same person!
👉 Tip: Keeping a period diary or using a period-tracking app can help you learn your own cycle.
Myth #6: Having a period is always painful.
Fact: While some people do get cramps, headaches, or backaches, periods are not meant to be unbearable.
Cramps happen because the uterus muscles contract to release the lining. For many girls, the discomfort is mild. For others, it’s more noticeable.
👉 What helps:
Light exercise (walking, yoga)
Heat packs or warm baths
Drinking water and avoiding too much caffeine
Talking to a doctor if pain is severe or interrupts daily life
Myth #7: You’ll know exactly when your period is coming.
Fact: Especially at the beginning, periods can be unpredictable.
In the first couple of years, cycles are often irregular. One month it may come after 28 days, another month after 40 days. Over time, most girls’ cycles settle into a pattern.
👉 Tip: Carry a pad or liner in your backpack “just in case.” That way you’ll always feel prepared.
Myth #8: You shouldn’t bathe during your period.
Fact: Good hygiene is even more important during your period, and showering or bathing is completely safe.
Some old myths say water stops period flow or makes you sick—neither is true. Bathing keeps you clean, fresh, and helps with cramps. Washing your hair is fine too.
👉 Self-care tip: A warm shower can relax muscles and make you feel better emotionally, too.
Myth #9: Period products are dangerous.
Fact: Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear are safe when used correctly.
Each option has pros and cons. Pads are easy to use. Tampons and cups allow more freedom for swimming and sports. Period underwear is reusable and comfortable.
👉 Safety tips:
Change pads/tampons every 4–6 hours.
Use the right absorbency for your flow.
Wash reusable products carefully.
Talk to a parent or doctor to explore which option feels best for you.
Myth #10: People can tell when you’re on your period.
Fact: No one can know you’re on your period unless you tell them.
You might worry that people can “see” or “smell” your period, but that’s not true if you use period products and change them regularly. Most of the time, you’re the only one who notices.
👉 Confidence booster: Wearing dark clothes or carrying a sweater to tie around your waist can give extra peace of mind on heavy days.
Myth #11: Talking about periods is embarrassing.
Fact: Talking about periods makes them easier to manage—and helps others too.
Periods are a shared experience for billions of people. When we don’t talk about them, myths grow. When we do, we learn, support each other, and break down the shame.
👉 Try this: Share one fact you learned about periods today with a friend or family member. You’ll be spreading knowledge and confidence!
How to Take Care of Yourself During Your Period
Now that we’ve cleared up the myths, here are some practical ways to make your period a little easier:
Stay prepared: Keep a small pouch with pads, tampons, or period underwear in your bag.
Eat well: Iron-rich foods (like spinach, beans, or chicken) can replace iron lost in blood.
Stay active: Even gentle movement helps with cramps.
Get sleep: Your body needs extra rest during your cycle.
Talk about it: Share how you’re feeling with a parent, sister, or trusted friend.
Ask for help if needed: If your periods are very painful, extremely heavy, or make you miss school, talk to a doctor.
Your period is a natural, healthy part of growing up. It doesn’t define you, limit you, or make you less capable. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel.
So the next time you hear someone whisper a strange “fact” about periods, you’ll know the truth—and maybe even be the one to set the record straight.
You’re not alone. Every girl goes through this, and with the right knowledge, you’ve got everything you need to take on your cycle with confidence and pride.
