A controversial statement from a South African man has ignited a fierce debate online after he linked a woman's menstrual cycle to her fidelity.
The Controversial Claim
Leko Shoba took to social media on Tuesday, February 12, 2025, to make a bold and unverified assertion about relationships and biology. He declared that if a woman experiences her monthly period on different dates each month, it is a definitive sign that she is being unfaithful to her partner.
"If your woman's period comes at different dates every month, she’s cheating on you," Shoba wrote in his post, which was shared widely. The claim was reported by popular blogger Linda Ikeji later that same day at 4:37 PM.
Understanding Menstrual Cycles
Medical experts and gynecologists have consistently stated that variation in menstrual cycle length is completely normal. A cycle is typically counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. While the average is around 28 days, a cycle lasting anywhere from 21 to 35 days is considered regular for many women.
Numerous factors can cause cycle dates to shift, none of which are related to infidelity. These include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Changes in diet or exercise
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Certain medical conditions
- Travel or changes in sleep patterns
Public Reaction and Backlash
The post quickly drew significant criticism and mockery from social media users. Many pointed out the glaring lack of scientific basis for Shoba's claim, labeling it as ignorant and potentially harmful.
Critics argued that such statements spread misinformation and could create unnecessary suspicion and conflict in relationships. They emphasized that trust and communication, not monitoring biological functions, are the foundations of a healthy partnership.
Others used the opportunity to educate on the normalcy of menstrual cycle variations, urging the public to seek accurate health information from certified professionals rather than social media posts.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of combating health-related myths and the rapid spread of unverified claims online, especially those that make baseless connections between physiology and behavior.
