Let’s face it: Even in 2024, periods can still be shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding. At DIVA, while we’ve come a long way in breaking the stigma around menstruation, there are still plenty of myths and misconceptions floating around about period blood.
Did you know that nearly 50 percent of folks who menstruate say they don’t have a proper understanding of their cycle? In the same study, 60 percent even said they didn’t know how many phases existed in a cycle. Spoiler alert: There are four phases in your menstrual cycle.
But of course, with such a lack of proper period education in our society, there’s bound to be a myth or two you (or someone you know) believe.
“Period myths not only create unnecessary shame and anxiety surrounding periods,” The Alliance for Period Supplies says, “But also limits participation in different activities as well as access to accurate information about your menstrual cycle.”
Whether these myths are based on outdated information or plain ol’ misunderstandings about what people who menstruate experience, we’re here to wipe the slate clean. Let’s break down seven of the most common myths about period blood and set the record straight.
7 period blood myths you might still believe
1. Period blood is just blood
First off, let’s talk about what period blood actually is. Many people think it’s simply blood, but it’s a bit more complicated than that.
Period blood is a mix of blood, uterine lining tissue, mucus, and vaginal secretions. Essentially, it’s the body’s way of shedding the lining that was prepared to nurture a fertilized egg — but when pregnancy doesn’t happen, the body gets rid of it. So while you might think it’s just blood, it’s a whole system at work. And while the blood itself is very much real and vital to your cycle, it’s not *just* blood.
2. Your period blood should be bright red
Another common myth? That period blood should always be a bright red color. Not true! The color of period blood can vary depending on how long it’s been in your system and how fast it’s flowing. Bright red is common at the beginning of your period, but it can range from deep burgundy to dark brown, especially at the end of your period or during lighter days.
The color reflects the speed at which the blood is flowing and how long it’s been exposed to oxygen — so no need to worry if your blood looks a little different than you expected.
3. It’s unhygienic to touch period blood
This one is pretty pervasive. Somehow, we’ve been led to believe that period blood is “dirty” or “unsanitary.” The truth? Period blood is just a normal part of the menstrual process, and it’s no different from other bodily fluids in terms of hygiene.
As long as you’re practicing general hygiene, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with touching your period blood — whether that’s while using a tampon, menstrual cup, or even just tracking your flow. In fact, some people choose to practice blood-positive rituals or rituals with menstrual cups, embracing their period as a natural and healthy part of their body.
4. Your period blood is always full of clots
Clots are often associated with heavier flow days, but they’re not a given with every period. Small clots or tissue are normal and often occur at the beginning of your period when your flow is heavier. But just because you have a clot doesn’t mean anything is wrong — your body is simply trying to expel the uterine lining in a way that works for you.
However, if you experience large clots consistently, or if you have other symptoms like extreme pain or very heavy bleeding, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider.
5. You can’t get pregnant while on your period
This is one of those myths that just won’t go away. While it’s true that you’re least likely to get pregnant during your period (especially if you have a regular cycle), it’s still possible.
Sperm can live inside the body for up to five days, so if you have sex at the tail end of your period and ovulate early, you could end up pregnant. Additionally, some women have irregular cycles and may not know when they’re ovulating. So, yes, if you're not ready for a baby, don’t skip a form of contraception just because you're on your period.
6. You should always use pads or tampons
While pads and tampons are the most well-known menstrual products, they’re certainly not the only options. Menstrual cups, period underwear, and reusable pads are all becoming more popular as sustainable alternatives.
At DIVA, we’re no strangers to period product alternatives. We love:
- DIVA™ Cup: The OG menstrual cup, our’s come in three different sizes, making it a fit for every body: DIVA™ Cup Model 0 best for first-time users or for slim vaginal canals, DIVA™ Cup Model 1 best for medium to heavy flow days and DIVA™ Cup Model 2 for ages 35+ or those with wider vaginal canals and those post-partum.
- DIVA™ Disc: Unlock the next level of cycle care with the DIVA™ Disc, consciously designed for increased comfort, ease-of-use, and up to 12 hours of continuous period protection.
- DIVA™ Reusable Period Underwear: Introducing reusable period underwear that moves with you. Whether you're decked in sweats to survive your period or breaking a sweat at the gym, DIVA’s Reusable Period Underwear brings you all-day leak protection with an ultra-thin gusset that stays invisible under your yoga pants (or slip dress, if that's more your style).
Of course, what’s best for you depends on your body and what you find most comfortable. But when it comes to DIVA, we’ve got something for everyone who menstruates.
7. Period blood smells terrible
Let’s talk about the “smell” myth. Period blood itself doesn’t have a strong odor. If you’re noticing an unpleasant smell, it’s often due to bacterial growth in your menstrual products (like pads or tampons) if they’re left on too long or not changed regularly.
Proper hygiene, like changing your products regularly and washing your hands, goes a long way in keeping things fresh. And let’s be real—if you've ever left a tampon in just a bit too long, you know that smell is more about *stale* blood, not period blood in its natural state. So don’t stress — it’s totally manageable!
Remember: Your period blood is completely natural and a key part of your menstrual cycle. There’s no “right” way for your period to look or feel — and everyone will experience it differently. So, whether it’s the color, the flow, or the way you manage your period, what matters most is that you feel informed, confident, and empowered to do what’s best for your body.
Don’t let myths and misconceptions hold you back from embracing your cycle. Instead, let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the fact that periods are *natural*, *powerful*, and a reflection of your body’s strength and health.
