FAQs
I have a lot of pain during periods. What should I do?
Pain or heaviness in breasts, lower abdomen, lower back and/or thighs before or during periods is quite common. It might help to use a hot water bag and/or gently massage the lower abdomen. Gentle exercise like walking and doing routine daily activities is helpful in preventing muscles from cramping up. In case of extreme pain, excessive flow or irregular cycles, please consult a gynaecologist as soon as possible. Avoid taking medicines on your own to hasten or delay periods.
I tried using tampons once. I developed rashes, and it hurt. Why? I had heard that they are better than pads.
Some women prefer tampons to pads. You should use what you find most comfortable. Although it might take some time and effort to learn how to use a tampon, it is safe and convenient if used properly. A tampon can cause discomfort if it is not correctly inserted and/or positioned. If you are tense while inserting a tampon, it might hurt you. Read the instructions manual carefully to insert a tampon properly. Tampons must be changed every four to six hours to prevent infection. You might have developed a rash because you had not changed for a long time. Some people are also very sensitive to the material used in the tampon.
Is it true that using a tampon could tear the hymen? Would that mean that I am no longer a virgin?
The hymen is a thin and highly elastic membrane present in the vagina. Using a tampon does not tear the hymen, as it is elastic. The hymen may however break or stretch during the course of running, cycling or exercising, at any point in life. So, the presence or absence of an intact hymen does not indicate whether or not a woman has had sex. There is no “proof of virginity” for either a woman or a man.
What is meant by the terms peri-menopause and climacteric?
Perimenopause- The period before a woman reaches menopause. During this time, the ovaries begin to produce less oestrogen, a hormone that helps regulate menstruation. Perimenopause can begin to occur a few years prior to menopause. Within the last two years of perimenopause, oestrogen production decreases more rapidly, which can lead to menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, changes in libido, and vaginal dryness.
Perimenopause and menopause are often thought of as a time when women experience diminished sexual desire. While libido (sexual desire) might decrease, this idea may have more to do with prevailing social attitudes that look down upon women’s expression of sexuality, after they have fulfilled their reproductive responsibilities towards the family.
Climacetric: When men begin to produce decreased level of testosterone, usually around the age of 45-65. This has been linked with the female menopausal process. Unlike menopausal women, this is not often accompanied by decreased sexual libido.
Why is my period late?
If your period is late, that might be caused by many reasons, such as stress, weight fluctuation, the weather, or medication. Sometimes it’s an indication of something more serious, and in case it is persistent, it’s advisable to see a physician. If you have had sex recently, it could mean you are pregnant. In that case, you can do a urine test the first day after your missed period.
Is it infectious or dirty to have sex while on my period?
There is nothing dirty or unclean about menstruation. Blood from menstruation is no more likely to infect a woman’s partner than sweat, saliva, or vaginal secretions caused by sexual arousal. We know that menstrual fluid itself is not infectious, and it does not cause disease or sickness. Some women today enjoy their periods as a proud reminder of their femininity. Many others see it as an uncomfortable inconvenience that they could do well without. And many have found that they can enjoy their sexuality and express themselves sexually during menstruation.