I think, all these ritual were created for a reason in the ancient days. Women were actually given rest and were made to come out of their routines for a few days. Those days most of the families were huge joint families. Cooking and cleaning were back-breaking jobs. When women were excluded for these days they were granted rest for self-balancing and to explore their womanhood. Women were totally free from all their daily chores and responsibilities, including taking care of their own kids. Actually, women looked forward every month for this retreating break. So, every ritual was made to support people, they are not superstitious at all! Following them now is totally your choice.