Menstrual Cycle FAQs

The Basics:

What is a period/menstruation?

Menstruation, also known as menses, menstrual period, or just period is the shedding of your uterus lining. Menstrual blood consists of blood and tissue from the inside of your uterus.

What is my “cycle”?

Your menstrual cycle refers to the hormonal changes and events that occur as it preps for the prospect of pregnancy. Your menstrual cycle is the time from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period.

How long does a period last?

This varies from person to person, but the typical length of a period is 4-7 days.

What is considered Day 1 of my cycle?

Day 1 is the first day of the start of your period.  

How many days are in between periods?

This varies from person to person, but on average, 28 days pass from the start of one period to the start of the next.

What is ovulation and when does this occur in my cycle?

Ovulation refers to the process where your ovaries releases a mature egg. This typically occurs 14 days before the start of your next period. If we’re taking a look at a 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs 2 weeks after the start of your period and 2 weeks before the start of your next period.

How do I know I’m ovulating?

There are many different ways to tell when you are ovulating. Some common signs and symptoms include a rise in basal body temperature, mild breast tenderness, ovulation cramping known as mittelschmerz (this usually occurs where your ovaries are located—most menstruating individuals have 2 ovaries located 2-3 finger breadths midline from the top of your hip bones), and increased cervical discharge that can be described as a raw egg-white texture.

How much blood loss during a period is normal?

On average, a menstruating individual will lose between 30-40ml during menstruation (this is about 2-3 tablespoons).

There are many reasons why someone’s flow is lighter or heavier. A lighter flow can indicate pregnancy or occur as a result of increased stress, rapid weight loss, or strenuous exercise. A heavier flow, known as menorrhagia, is when bleeding lasts more than 7 days and blood loss more than 80ml. Heavier blood flow can be a result of hormonal imbalance, bleeding disorders, or uterine-related conditions such as fibroids.

Is period pain normal?

While period pain is common and some discomfort is to be expected, period pain is NOT normal. There are a number of underlying conditions that can exacerbate pain during your menses including uterine fibroids or endometriosis.

What is PMS?

PMS or Premenstrual syndrome consists of a wide variety of symptoms which occur before the start of your period. These include, but are not limited to:

·      Mood changes

·      Fatigue

·      Food cravings

·      Bloating

·      Breast tenderness

·      Acne

·      Fluid retention.

Intense PMS symptoms can be the result of hormonal imbalances for which many naturopathic interventions can be recommended to help alleviate symptoms.

What period products are available?

Finding period products that work well for your body and your needs is most important. The following is a list of some products available on the market.

·      Pads/sanitary napkins

·      Tampons

·      Menstrual cups

·      Menstrual disc

·      Period underwear

·      Reusable cloth pads

Why is important for me to know this information.

For any menstruating individual, tracking your period can help you better understand how your unique cycle and how it affects you. It also helps healthcare providers know if there is any underlying pathology that requires treatment (for example: uterine fibroids, PCOS, and endometriosis).

You made it to the end! Thanks for reading and sticking around. If you found this information helpful and are interested in naturopathic tele-health care, book your Complimentary Introductory call today!

As always, Take good care.

Love,

Dr. Janki Dalal

Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog is NOT personal medical advice. This material is purely for educational purposes and is not a substitution for a proper medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult with your doctor before implementing any new treatments.

References:

6 types of period products: Know your options. (2023). Retrieved February 1, 2023, from https://fsastore.com/learn-6-types-of-period-products-know-your-options.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, August 17). Heavy menstrual bleeding. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 1, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/blooddisorders/women/menorrhagia.html#:~:text=Usually%2C%20menstrual%20bleeding%20lasts%20about,lose%20twice%20as%20much%20blood.

NHS. (2023, January 5). Periods and fertility in the menstrual cycle. NHS choices. Retrieved February 1, 2023, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/fertility-in-the-menstrual-cycle/#:~:text=The%20length%20of%20the%20menstrual,to%2035%20days%2C%20are%20normal.

Your First period. ACOG. (2022, June). Retrieved February 1, 2023, from https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-first-period