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| - Last Updated on September 19, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that there are a few mistakes that one makes during periods, i.e., washing one’s head, and exercising, amongst others. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook reel states the mistakes during periods!
It further elaborates, “❌ No head wash During periods the body is releasing heat through the discharge of blood. If you hair wash during periods, with cold water, it interferes with the natural detoxification. Take head bath only on the fourth day.
❌ no exercising Avoid physical exertion – Travelling, workouts increase the Vata Dosha (One of the three basic elements of the body according to Ayurveda) in the body which is already predominant in the body during the menses. The reason for this is because menstruation is a time in which Apana the downward moving wind is dominant.”
Fact Check
Should hair washing be avoided during periods?
No, there is no need to avoid washing your hair during menstruation. In fact, washing your hair regularly during your period can help to reduce oil build-up and keep your scalp healthy.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that washing your hair with cold water during your menstrual cycle interferes with the natural detoxification of the body. And, even Ayurveda does not prohibit head baths during periods. The UNICEF clearly states that cold water has no negative impact on our health or menstrual cycle. The body has a number of ways to detoxify itself, including through the liver, kidneys, and skin. Washing your hair with cold water is unlikely to have a significant impact on the overall detoxification process.
In one of the misleading post, it is said that if you keep your hair wet you will catch a cold. The common cold is caused by viruses and not by wet hairs.
Dr. P. Ram Manohar, Research Director, Amrita School of Ayurveda explains, “There are no specific references in Ayurvedic texts that suggests women should not wash hair or exercise during menstruation.”
He shares his opinion on this topic by saying, “It is very likely that some of these practices are based on social or religious customs and may not be due to medical reasons. It might have been difficult for women to bathe in ponds during periods. Sanitary napkins were not available in those days and women could not move so freely around.”
However, some people believe that washing your hair with cold water can cause the muscles in the scalp to constrict, which can reduce blood flow and interfere with the detoxification process. There is some evidence to suggest that cold water can have an effect on blood circulation, but it is unclear whether this effect would be significant enough to interfere with the detoxification process in the scalp and whether this has anything to do with periods is not scientifically backed up.
In conclusion, there is no medical reason to avoid washing your hair during your menstrual period. You can wash your hair as usual during your period without any harm or negative health effects. Menstruation is a natural process that does not require any specific changes in your hygiene routine, including how you care for your hair.
It’s important to maintain good hygiene practices during your period, and washing your hair is a normal part of personal hygiene.
Should exercising during periods be avoided?
No. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that exercising during periods is harmful. In fact, a number of studies have shown that exercise can be beneficial for women during their menstrual cycle.
It can be beneficial for a number of reasons. Exercise can help to reduce cramps, improve mood, boost energy levels, reduce bloating and even improve sleep quality. exercise can release ‘happy’ hormones such as serotonin and endorphins, which benefits women. However, strenuous or prolonged exercise should be avoided when you are menstruating. Exercise must be practised with care and precautions. It is important to listen to your body and choose low-impact activities such as yoga, swimming, or walking if you experience discomfort or pain during menstruation.
Dr Ayush Chandra, Corporate Yoga trainer, consultant diabetologist, and founder of Nivaran Health, Delhi states, “Exercising during periods may affect people in different ways. It can decrease symptoms like painful cramps, improve endorphin levels, aid in gaining strength, and power & enhance mood. During the initial few days, when bleeding is heavy, one can practice light exercises like mild cardio, yoga asana, low strength-weight training and walking.”
Ultimately, there is no universal rule that says you must avoid exercise during your period. It’s a personal decision based on your comfort level and how your body responds to physical activity during this time. If you have concerns about your exercise routine and your menstrual cycle, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or a fitness professional for guidance tailored to your individual needs and health status.
Rupam Sarkar BPT, MPT (Cardiothoracic & Pulmonary Sciences) states, “Exercise during mensuration can reduce pain/cramps by improving blood circulation. It also improves the process of the shedding of endometrial lining. Studies have shown that exercise releases beta-endorphins in your body that act like (Natural pain relievers) to heal cramps and pain. It is also called human morphine. Analgesia or pain relief is thus possible by exercising during periods. Moreover, prostaglandin is the chemical released in the body during mensuration that causes cramps. Exercise helps burn this chemical and relieves pain. In conclusion, exercising while having periods helps regularise period cycles and get your period on track. Aerobic exercises are recommended.”
THIP Media has previously debunked various myths about periods, such as having a period is not normal, periods longer than three days are not normal, periods can be induced early with home remedies, etc.
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