BERGEN, NORWAY – Here’s a story that really blows. According to researchers at Haukeland University Hospital in Bergen, Norway, women’s cycles could have a direct impact on their respiratory health. Turns out that women who suffer from asthma, for example, experienced worse symptoms during that special time of the month.
But that’s not all. Researchers from the University of Texas found a link between menstruation and muscle and ligament injuries. According to their findings, women were more prone to A.C.L. tears and other sports injuries, especially in the knee, during their periods. Leading to more than just a bad mood.
Then there’s this: in third-world nations like Zimbabwe, women’s periods are directly linked to poverty. In poor countries where young girls don’t have regular access to things like tampons and sanitary napkins, it’s not uncommon to miss a week or more of school while menstruating. The only other option for some girls is to use things like mud or even cow dung to help absorb the, well you know. That can lead to infections, more missed school and only furthers the cycle of poverty.
Seriously, something as simple as a box of tampons can go a long way in a starving nation. Think about that when you’re making your donations this holiday season.