by Mb Rose

Created on: February 12, 2009

Why does the little black box of science continually think they can improve upon what has been a normal, human, female bodily function for eons? It is doubtful for any health benefits for women. More likely it is because it removes one bodily function that the male gender has found objectionable for a variety of reasons. Women have been classified as unclean in nearly every religion in the world while on their monthly cycle. Why? Possibly because men find the flow of blood from a woman's body distasteful and a barrier to their enjoyment of intercourse?

Whatever the reasons, women have been vilified for this normal body function for all too long. A great book to read is 'The Red Tent'...won't answer your questions, but will let you know how long this male created myth has been in existence. It is also a great account of women's ability to support each other even in difficult times.

If a woman chooses to cease her periods for her own reasons and/or benefit then as long as she understands the inherent risks involved, that is her right. But please be sure you know what those risks are. And be aware that if you stop a natural cycle there is no guarantee that you will be able to return to the normal and natural rhythm when you decide you want a child. Also, if you stop this flow there is an increased chance that you may end up with too much iron in your system; either from the meats you eat, or the iron fortified vitamins many women take because of their monthly cycles. These are the things that will likely be overlooked as you are given the spiel on how wonderful it will be for you not to have a monthly period.

Don't jump on this bandwagon too soon. All too often what science says is good practice today, becomes the medical horrors of tomorrow. Look up the thalidomide babies of the 60s. This was a drug that doctors freely gave to pregnant women, assuring them it was absolutely safe, and would help them to get better sleep while pregnant. What happened was thousands of babies born horrifically deformed. Science at its best. More recently the Fen-Phen debacle, with resulting permanent heart/lung damage for many who simply wanted to lose a few extra pounds.

Are monthly periods a pain in the ass at times? Yes. Is stopping them worth risking my future childbearing options or general health? NO! I, for one, choose not to mess with the normal functioning of my body. When, or if, it becomes broken is when I will intervene...hopefully, in a more natural and less dangerous way.

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