64 Interesting Menstruation Facts

Here’s a collection of 64 interesting menstruation facts covering biology, history, culture, myths, and more:

🩸 Biological & Medical Facts

1. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, but can range from 21 to 35 days.
2. Periods typically last between 3 to 7 days.
3. The average woman loses about 30–80 ml of blood during a period.
4. Menstrual blood also contains tissue from the uterine lining.
5. Ovulation usually occurs around day 14 of the cycle.
6. Not everyone has PMS (premenstrual syndrome), but about 75% of menstruating individuals report some symptoms.
7. Cramps (dysmenorrhea) are caused by prostaglandins, which help the uterus contract.
8. Some people experience irregular cycles, especially during puberty and perimenopause.
9. Menarche is the term for a girl’s first period—average age is 12–13 years.
10. Periods can become lighter or heavier due to hormonal changes, stress, or diet.
11. Athletes or those with low body fat may stop menstruating (amenorrhea).
12. Menstrual clots are normal and usually harmless.
13. Birth control pills can regulate or stop periods altogether.
14. Periods may change after pregnancy or childbirth.
15. Iron deficiency can result from heavy periods.
16. Menstruation is a sign of a healthy reproductive system.
17. Periods can become irregular due to PCOS, thyroid issues, or stress.
18. Some people get mid-cycle spotting during ovulation.
19. Vaginal discharge changes during the menstrual cycle—it’s normal.
20. Menstrual cups, pads, tampons, and period panties are all valid options.
21. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is rare but linked to high-absorbency tampon use.
22. Some women experience heightened senses (like smell) during menstruation.
23. A small percentage of women experience PMDD—a more severe form of PMS.

📜 Historical & Cultural Facts

24. Ancient Romans believed menstrual blood could spoil crops.
25. In medieval Europe, menstruating women were seen as spiritually unclean.
26. “The Curse” was a common euphemism for menstruation in older cultures.
27. In some ancient societies, periods were associated with power and magic.
28. In ancient Egypt, women used papyrus as pads.
29. Native American cultures often saw menstruation as a sacred and powerful time.
30. In many Eastern cultures, menstruating women were isolated during their cycles.
31. Menstrual huts still exist in parts of Nepal and India.
32. Some cultures believe women shouldn’t cook or touch plants while menstruating.
33. In Japan, it was once believed menstruating women should not make sushi.
34. The first commercial pad was introduced in the 1890s.
35. Tampons became more popular in the 1930s.
36. The menstrual cup was invented in the 1930s, but only gained popularity recently.

🔍 Social & Psychological Facts

37. Many people still feel shame or embarrassment about their periods.
38. Period poverty affects millions, especially in developing countries.
39. Access to menstrual products is a major global issue.
40. Some countries have started eliminating the tampon tax.
41. Scotland was the first country to make period products free for all.
42. Many people miss school or work due to period pain or lack of products.
43. Periods are often stigmatized in media, leading to misinformation.
44. Talking openly about menstruation helps normalize the experience.
45. Some companies now offer “menstrual leave” for people with painful periods.
46. Period tracking apps help monitor fertility, symptoms, and health.
47. Mood changes during menstruation are linked to hormonal fluctuations.
48. Some people feel more creative or introspective during their periods.
49. Period pain can be as intense as a heart attack, studies suggest.

🌍 Environmental & Ethical Facts

50. Disposable pads and tampons contribute to billions of tons of waste annually.
51. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly and can last up to 10 years.
52. Cloth pads and period underwear are washable and reusable.
53. There is a growing movement for sustainable menstruation.
54. Organic menstrual products are free from synthetic fragrances and dyes.

🤯 Weird & Surprising Facts

55. Animals like chimpanzees, bats, and elephants also menstruate.
56. It’s a myth that women’s cycles sync when living together—no solid evidence supports this.
57. Sharks are not attracted to menstrual blood any more than regular blood.
58. Some women experience period poops due to hormonal changes affecting digestion.
59. Periods can temporarily affect oral health and gum sensitivity.
60. Menstrual blood is sterile unless contaminated.
61. Some people get acne breakouts before or during their period.
62. You can get pregnant during your period, though it’s less likely.
63. Periods don’t always stop in water—they may slow down due to pressure.
64. Tracking your cycle can help detect early signs of health issues.