There is no scientific evidence supporting the claim that you should not wash your hair during your period. This belief is rooted in outdated cultural practices and myths, not medical fact. Many sources explicitly debunk this idea.
Debunking the Myth
Numerous reputable sources, including Wellbeing of Women, Healthline, and HealthShots, state that washing your hair during your menstrual cycle is perfectly safe and has no negative impact on your health or menstrual flow. The idea that washing your hair during your period will cause hair loss or alter its texture is false.
Some sources mention older beliefs suggesting avoiding washing hair for the first couple of days of your period to avoid hindering blood flow or causing a chill. However, these are not supported by any medical evidence. Quora mentions this traditional belief, but emphasizes it shouldn't be taken as a strict rule. Dr. Cuterus also explicitly states that menstruating and shampooing hair are unconnected.
In short, maintaining good hygiene is essential, and washing your hair is a part of that. There is no valid reason to avoid it during menstruation.
Cultural Variations and Misconceptions
It's important to acknowledge that cultural beliefs surrounding menstruation vary widely. Some cultures have long-held traditions suggesting avoiding certain activities during periods, including washing hair. Nuawoman and HelloClue highlight the diverse range of period-related superstitions from around the globe, some of which include restrictions on hair washing. However, these are not based on scientific evidence and should be disregarded in favor of modern understanding.
