8 Common Myths about Women’s Health, Debunked

Summary: Since time immemorial, women’s health has been associated with stigma, myths, misconceptions, and misinformation. The result is delayed diagnoses, treatment, intense pain, and sometimes death. This article exposed the truth about women’s health myths rooted in patriarchal control, impurity culture, cultural taboos, and old wives’ tales.

In the realm of women’s health, myths and misconceptions have long reigned supreme, often overshadowing the truth and leading many astray. From old wives’ tales passed down through generations to modern-day internet rumours, patriarchal control of women’s bodies, and impurity culture, these falsehoods have a significant impact on how women approach their health and well-being. 

In this article, Naija Feminists Media will pull back the curtain and expose nine common health myths for what they truly are: baseless fabrications that have no place in our modern understanding of women’s health.

1. Postpartum depression is rare: The birth of a baby signifies new joy in the family, but it can also come with unexpected feelings – depression. Postpartum depression (PPD)  is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth. Its symptoms include: mood swings,  frequent crying, fatigue, guilt and anxiety. It can persist up to a year or longer. While the African culture presents a stoic mother who bounces back to work a few weeks after birth, medical research shows that approximately 1 in 10 women will experience PPD, while some studies reported 1 in 7 women. The truth is, women experience postpartum depression after birth, and there is data to prove it. However, there are medications and treatments available to cure this illness.
2. Contraceptive pills cause infertility and weight gain: When it comes to family planning, Africans always ignore it. Maybe that’s why the myth about contraceptive pills is very prevalent in this part of the world. But no, the medication does not cause infertility. It can only delay your fertility and prevent pregnancy temporarily. Your fertility levels will return when you discontinue the contraceptive. Another myth surrounding birth control pills is that they lead to weight gain. This belief has caused countless women to shy away from an effective form of contraception, potentially putting them at risk for unintended pregnancies. However, extensive research has shown that there is no significant link between birth control pills and weight gain. In fact, some women may even experience a slight weight loss due to the hormonal changes induced by the pill.
3. Gynaecological issues only affect older women: This is a misconception and unverified myth; gynaecological conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and menstrual irregularities can affect women of all ages. In reality, reproductive health issues can emerge at any life stage, from adolescence through late adulthood. Although women of childbearing age have higher risks of gynaecological-related issues, conditions like Vulvovaginitis, Lichen sclerosus, and prognosis are prevalent among young girls in their early childhood. Thus, being vigilant about any slight change in women’s or girls’ bodies is crucial for timely management and prevention of complications. Regular gynaecological check-ups can help identify and address these issues, promoting overall well-being.
4. Premenstrual syndrome does not exist: Many times, women feel a wave of new emotions a week before their menstruation. These symptoms include: mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. This condition is known as Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and it’s estimated that 3 out of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome. So, it’s okay when you wake up annoyed and angry. Don’t fret! It’s simply your hormones at work. 
5. You can’t see a gynaecologist when you’re on your period: One of the major stigmas associated with women’s health is that menstruation is dirty. Thus, there is a formulated myth that a woman should never visit her Gynaecologist while on her period. This myth is rooted in impurity beliefs, cultural taboos, menstrual stigma, and outdated medical records. While some women may feel uncomfortable during their period, it’s absolutely normal and beneficial to see your Gynaecologist during this time. So visiting your gynaecologist during your period is generally acceptable and shouldn’t deter you from receiving essential healthcare. 
6. Heart disease does not affect women: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women worldwide, dispelling the myth that it only affects men. It’s a silent killer that affects women in unique ways due to the differences in hormones, body anatomy, and blood count. Yet, women with CVD continue to be underdiagnosed and undertreated due to misconceptions and a lack of awareness. So, the next time you are told heart diseases are meant for men only. Tell them that shortness of breath, indigestion, fast heart rate, numbness in hands or fingers, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, and new vision problems are parts of symptoms of cardiovascular diseases in women.
7. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is beneficial for women: Many cultures continue the inhumane act of FGM because they believe it is beneficial to women. They even claimed it reduces women’s sexual urge and prevents them from being promiscuous. Contrary to these beliefs, FGM does not have any health benefits; in fact, it’s a harmful practice that poses severe health risks to women and girls. FGM can lead to immediate complications like infections, bleeding, and pain, and long-term consequences such as difficulty during childbirth and psychological trauma.
8.  Menstrual pain is just part of being a woman: For decades,  women have been told to “suffer in silence” or that they just need to take ibuprofen and get on with their day to experience womanhood. While mild discomfort or cramping is common during your period, still, no pain should be normalised. Conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease cause debilitating pain, and delayed diagnoses lead to complications and sometimes, death. No woman should ever accept severe pain as “part of being a woman.”