Nobody ever wants to talk about this. This issue has become an abomination especially to the male ear. Maybe you should ask those looking to get theirs how precious it is. Well, let us look at the surprising things we never might have guessed about our periods.
Most women lose only about 4 spoons of blood during their entire period
Though it might feel like a lot, menstruation doesn’t really release a torrential downpour of blood from our bodies. There are other things mixed with the blood as well. Pads and tampons absorb all of the fluid, making it difficult to tell how much is actually coming out and drying you out in the process (ouch!).
It is more than just the blood
Another reason it seems like you’re losing a lot each month is that besides the blood, menstrual fluid contains cervical mucus, vaginal secretions, and endometrial tissue. Many women mistake endometrial tissue for blood clots, but in reality it’s just the inner lining of your uterus – and it’s completely normal to have a few each month.
Your menstrual blood does not actually smell
Except it is exposed to air though. Once in a tampon or pad, air reaches the fluid and it might develop a mild irony smell – but other people generally won’t be able to detect it. If you’re still worried about odor, a menstrual cup can help. Cups are worn internally and form a gentle seal to collect your flow which keeps the fluid away from the air until you’re ready to empty it – so there’s no smell!
You have crazy cravings
Cravings for sugar and carbs, as well as an increased sex drive, can be triggered by a change in levels of the hormone progesterone, which are at their lowest during menstruation. So if you find yourself a little friskier during your time of the month, don’t worry, it’s totally natural to have an increased sex drive – and yes it’s perfectly healthy to have sex during your period as well.
Your uterus is pear shaped
During your period it might feel massive due to cramping and bloating, but your uterus is actually only around 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. However, it’s also super elastic can stretch to up to 500% of its size during pregnancy!
You should have sex, lots of it
Orgasms trigger a release of oxytocin and dopamine, along with other endorphins, which all act as natural painkillers. So there’s another point in favor of getting it on during your period, but if you’re not in the mood for intercourse, just remember there are plenty of other ways to reach an orgasm on your own!
We shouldn’t have to hide our periods or worry about others finding out. Our bodies are actually pretty awesome and the more you know about yours, the more informed your health decisions will be. So share all this new found knowledge with your friends, and don’t be embarrassed to talk to each other about your periods!