A purpose for menstruation

[Bessie]

I was reading up on sea sponges, as the sponge thread intrigued me.
Since finding out about periods, then experiencing the discomfort and hassle, I'd never thought there was a real reason for them, or anything positive to be said. So I was suprised to read this -
There is in fact a purpose behind the body regularly shedding the uterine lining and letting the blood flow away — the uterus is cleansed of any unhealthy micro-organisms that might have gained entrance and taken up residence during the preceding cycle. By ridding the uterus of cells that might have become infected, the immunological integrity of the body is protected, the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases is reduced, and the uterus is kept clean.
I wonder if my DDs will view menstruation differently when I've told them about this.
I wonder as well - if periods weren't such a taboo, would they be the hassle that they are now?

[OJandMe]

It's sad that you've felt that way about your period for so long.

We learnt about the shedding of the uterus during biology at school, so it's always been something I've known and understood.

Our bodies are amazing things designed meticulously in fabulous working order (for the most part).

Periods are essential, just like the process of the testicals re-absorbing the semen into the male body every 2 days, to prevent the risk of 'old sperm' which has degenerated fertilising an egg.

(this means, don't believe a guy who tells you they HAVE to release it every day/2 days because they feel too full.... it's not true... if they don't release it, it gets re-absorbed. Just some info to have handy if you just don't feel like it. lol. )

[sam's mum]

makes me wonder how bad it is to be skipping periods then.

[Funkychicken]

I wonder if my DDs will view menstruation differently when I've told them about this.
I wonder as well - if periods weren't such a taboo, would they be the hassle that they are now?

I honestly believe that with each generation, we are moving forward-albeit slowly-with our acceptance of menstruating. My own mother was very upfront and honest with me about the subject but she missed the bit about it being a celebration of our womanhood. I hope that I can pass on to my DD all that my mum told me plus all that I have come to know about menstruation and it's purpose.

.

(this means, don't believe a guy who tells you they HAVE to release it every day/2 days because they feel too full.... it's not true... if they don't release it, it gets re-absorbed. Just some info to have handy if you just don't feel like it. lol. )

LOL I had a good old laugh at that part of your post!

[Bessie]

We learnt about the shedding of the uterus during biology at school, so it's always been something I've known and understood.

I was told that we bled, just to get rid of the lining rather than the uterus 'cleansing' itself. ifkwim.
It's got negative conotations rather than positive.
Then periods pains were managed with painkillers, bedrest and a hot water bottle... when really we should be exercising and so on.

[SammieSnail]

makes me wonder how bad it is to be skipping periods then.

mmhmm...

[kymmy]

A reason for something so natural. Its sad that its our own body and we know so little. I think ppl tend to say ewww and just pretend it doesn't happen - well its not helpful, doesn't make your periods go away.