Understanding Menstruation: Your Guide to Periods
Periods are a natural part of life for anyone with a uterus, but how they look and affect you can be very different. Here’s a guide to understanding menstruation.
What are periods?
Each month, your body prepares for a potential pregnancy. Hormones cause the lining of your uterus to thicken, creating an environment that is nutrient-rich, and ready for a fertilised egg.
If an egg isn’t fertilised, this lining isn’t needed and it breaks down. This breakdown, mixed with blood, is what you see as your period.
It usually lasts between three to seven days, though this can vary from person to person.
Staring your period
Puberty brings many changes, and the start of your period is a big one. It can be exciting, confusing, or a mix of both. During puberty, your hormone levels fluctuate, which can make your periods irregular at first. This is completely normal and usually settles down over time.
During puberty, might also notice other changes, like breast development, body hair growth, and changes in your skin.
Periods are different for everyone
It’s important to know that periods aren’t the same for everyone. Some people have very light periods, while others experience heavier bleeding.
Some have short cycles, and others have longer ones. An average menstrual cycle is 28 days, but anything between 21 and 35 days is also considered normal.
Cramps, mood changes, and other symptoms, including PMS, can also differ depending on the person. PMS can include things like mood swings, bloating, and headaches.
Period products
There are many different period products available, and it’s important to find what works for you.
Sanitary pads are worn in your underwear and absorb blood. Tampons are inserted into the vagina and also absorb blood. Tampons need to be changed every 4-8 hours. Menstrual cups are reusable cups that collect blood, and period underwear are special underwear that absorb blood.
It is important to read the instructions on the packaging of any period product before you use them.
Managing your period
There are many ways to manage your period, and finding what works best for you is key.
Some people find heat packs or gentle exercise helpful for cramps. Pain relief medication like paracetamol can also be effective.
Keeping track of your cycle with a period tracking app or calendar can help you know when your period is coming and give you time to be prepared.
Maintaining good hygiene, such as changing pads or tampons regularly and washing your hands, is also important.
When to seek help
While periods are normal, some symptoms might mean it’s worth seeking medical advice from a doctor. These include very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour), severe pain that interferes with your daily life, periods that suddenly become irregular, or bleeding between periods. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. They’re there to help you understand your body and keep you healthy.
