Hey ladies, let’s talk periods. No, not in hushed tones or with awkward side glances. We’re going to delve into the depths of our menstrual cycles – because let’s face it, understanding our bodies is pretty powerful, right? From Nairobi to Nigeria, Accra to Addis, we all share this experience, and it’s high time we talked about it openly and honestly.

Why Your Cycle is More Than Just “That Time of the Month”

Our menstrual cycle is like a monthly report card from our bodies. It’s a natural rhythm that, when regular, signals that everything is working as it should. Think of it as your body’s own health check-up; those regular periods between puberty and menopause usually mean your body’s doing its thing, no stress. But when things go off-kilter – irregular periods, painful periods – these could be your body waving a little flag saying, “Hey, something’s not quite right”.

And it’s not just about fertility, though it’s definitely a key part; period problems might even lead to other health niggles. As we transition to our more mature and wise years (that’s right, menopause!), our ever-changing hormone levels can play a role in the risk of some chronic conditions. So, understanding our cycles is not just about avoiding period accidents; it’s a key part of taking charge of our overall well-being.

The Rollercoaster of Hormones: How Your Cycle Affects Your Mood and Energy

Ever felt like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster during your cycle? That’s not just in your head! Our hormones, the tiny messengers that control our menstrual cycle, can seriously impact our emotions, our minds, and our physical selves. It’s like a monthly symphony playing out in our bodies, with different sections having distinct moods.

• The Energetic First Half (Weeks 1 & 2): Remember that time after your period, when you felt like you could conquer the world? Well, that’s your hormones doing their magic! In the first two weeks of our cycle (starting from the first day of your period, in a typical 28-day cycle), you might feel like your energy levels are higher than normal, and your memory is sharper. It’s like our bodies are saying, “Let’s get things done!”. Our pain threshold may also be higher during this time, so a great time to go for that extra workout at the gym. It’s also a brilliant time for that Pap smear, as your cervical fluid is thinnest during this week.
• The Sluggish Second Half (From Ovulation Onwards): Now, the second half of the cycle starting around ovulation can be a whole different story. You may start to feel a little sluggish, a tad forgetful, and not quite your usual go-getter self. And if you’ve been battling things like depression, irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, or even asthma, those symptoms may decide to pay you an unpleasant visit right before your period starts. It’s important to note that, for our sisters with diabetes, controlling glucose levels might become a bit of a battle at this time. Blood sugar levels may fluctuate more, and for those of us who experience PMS, this could be even more pronounced. Oh, and let’s not forget those cravings for sugary and starchy goodies – it’s all thanks to a drop in serotonin levels and fluctuating glucose, all within the context of your period.

Beyond the Cramps: How Your Cycle Can Interact with Other Health Issues

Our cycles can do more than just dictate our mood; they can also interact with other health issues. It’s like our bodies are in constant conversation, and sometimes that conversation highlights a problem we need to address.

• Anemia: Heavy bleeding during periods can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia. This happens when our blood doesn’t have enough iron to carry oxygen, making us feel pale, tired, and weak.
• Asthma: Those of us with asthma might notice our symptoms flaring up during certain parts of our cycles.
• Depression: If you’ve experienced depression, you might be more prone to PMS or even the more severe PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). Depression symptoms can become more intense in the days leading up to your period.
• Diabetes: Irregular cycles, especially those longer than 40 days, might increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, especially for younger women. This could be related to PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), a condition often linked to insulin issues, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Heart Health and Bones: During amenorrhea (absence of periods) or menopause, the drop in oestrogen can leave our hearts and bones more vulnerable. This means increased risks of heart disease, stroke and osteoporosis.

The Weight Balancing Act: How Weight Affects Your Cycle

Did you know that your weight can actually play a role in the regularity of your cycle?. Whether we are underweight or overweight, it could throw off our hormonal balance and make periods irregular.

• Underweight: If our body fat dips too low, we may stop ovulating and experience irregular or absent periods. Anorexia, for example, is often linked to weight loss below a healthy level, leading to lower oestrogen levels, which can cause further health complications.
• Overweight: On the flip side, if we’re carrying excess weight, our fat cells can produce too much oestrogen. This can trick our bodies into thinking we are on hormonal birth control or pregnant, which may result in missed periods.

The Period-Pregnancy Connection: When Cycles Impact Fertility

So, how does all of this affect our plans for motherhood? Not all period problems interfere with pregnancy, but some definitely can. Infertility is defined as not being able to conceive after a year of trying, or 6 months for women over 35.

• Ovulation Problems: Irregular or missed periods might indicate that we’re not ovulating. In fact, not ovulating is a leading cause of infertility.
• Other Period Problems: Painful, prolonged, irregular, or heavy periods can also be signs that conceiving might be a challenge. Conditions like PCOS and uterine fibroids can lead to both heavy bleeding and fertility issues.

Taking Control: Tips for a Healthier Cycle

While we can’t always prevent menstrual issues, there are things we can do to support our reproductive health. It’s like tending to a garden; a little care goes a long way.

• Period Tracking: Keep a record of when your period starts, how long it lasts, the amount of bleeding, and any pain. This helps you and your doctor understand what’s normal and identify any changes that need addressing.
• Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can improve period problems like PMS, irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and even period pain.
• Pain Relief: For those of us experiencing period cramps, over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen or naproxen, when taken at the start or just before your period, can work wonders.
• Professional Support: If you are concerned about your periods, talk to your doctor about hormonal birth control, like the pill or IUDs, which are sometimes prescribed for health reasons other than contraception.
• Lifestyle Choices: Avoiding smoking and aiming for a balanced lifestyle can also contribute to a healthier cycle.

Final Thoughts: Your Cycle, Your Power

Sisters, our menstrual cycle is a powerful indicator of our health. It’s more than just a monthly inconvenience; it’s a complex process that affects every part of our lives. Understanding our cycle empowers us to make informed decisions about our health and wellbeing, and when to reach out for support. By listening to our bodies, tracking our symptoms, and seeking guidance when needed, we can navigate our cycles with confidence and live fuller, healthier lives. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, we’re all in this together. Let’s embrace our cycles, celebrate our bodies, and support each other every step of the way!

Keywords: menstrual cycle, period problems, hormones, women’s health, fertility, irregular periods, PCOS, anemia, weight and periods, period pain, Kenyan health, African women.

Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Guide

The menstrual cycle is a natural and normal process that occurs in the female body. It is a monthly cycle that prepares the body for pregnancy and involves the shedding of the uterine lining if pregnancy does not occur. While every woman’s cycle may vary in length and intensity, there are four main phases that make up a normal period cycle. Understanding these phases can help women better understand their bodies and manage their menstrual health.

Phase 1: Menstruation
The first phase of the menstrual cycle is menstruation, also known as a period. This phase typically lasts for 3-7 days and marks the beginning of the cycle. During this time, the body sheds the uterine lining that has built up in preparation for pregnancy. This shedding is what causes the bleeding that is associated with a period. The amount of blood lost during this phase can vary from woman to woman, but on average, it is around 2-3 tablespoons.

Phase 2: Follicular Phase
After menstruation, the body enters the follicular phase. This phase can last anywhere from 7-21 days and is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries. These follicles contain eggs that will potentially be released during ovulation. As the follicles grow, they produce estrogen, which helps thicken the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. This phase is also when the body produces follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which helps stimulate the growth of the follicles.

Phase 3: Ovulation
Ovulation is the most important phase of the menstrual cycle as it is the time when a woman is most fertile. It occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary from woman to woman. During ovulation, one of the follicles in the ovaries releases an egg, which then travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This egg has a lifespan of 12-24 hours, and if it is not fertilized by sperm, it will disintegrate. However, if sperm is present and fertilization occurs, the egg will implant itself in the uterine lining, resulting in pregnancy.

Phase 4: Luteal Phase
The final phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase, which lasts for approximately 14 days. This phase begins after ovulation and is characterized by the production of progesterone, which helps thicken the uterine lining even further to prepare for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the levels of estrogen and progesterone will decrease, causing the uterine lining to shed, and the cycle will start again with menstruation.

Understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle is essential for women to track their menstrual health and identify any irregularities. It is also crucial for those trying to conceive as it can help determine the most fertile days of the cycle. However, it is important to note that not all women have a 28-day cycle, and variations are entirely normal. Some women may have shorter or longer cycles, and this can also change from month to month.

It is also worth mentioning that factors such as stress, diet, and exercise can affect the menstrual cycle. Stress can cause hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular periods or even missed periods. A poor diet lacking in essential nutrients can also impact the menstrual cycle, while regular exercise can help regulate it.

In conclusion, the menstrual cycle is a natural and normal process that involves four main phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. Each phase plays a crucial role in preparing the body for pregnancy and maintaining overall reproductive health. Understanding these phases can help women better manage their menstrual health and identify any potential issues. If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

The 4 Phases of a Normal Period Cycle: What You Need to Know

As a woman, experiencing a period is a normal and natural part of life. However, many of us may not fully understand the intricacies of our menstrual cycle. From the length of our cycle to the changes in our body, there are many factors that contribute to a normal period cycle. In this article, we will break down the four phases of a normal period cycle and explain what you need to know.

Phase 1: Menstruation

The first phase of a normal period cycle is menstruation, also known as your period. This phase typically lasts for 3-7 days and is characterized by the shedding of the uterine lining. During this time, you may experience cramping, bloating, and mood swings. These symptoms are caused by hormonal changes in your body, specifically a decrease in estrogen and progesterone.

It is important to note that the length and intensity of your period may vary from month to month. Factors such as stress, diet, and exercise can all affect your menstrual cycle. If you experience unusually heavy or painful periods, it is always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider.

Phase 2: Follicular Phase

After your period ends, your body enters the follicular phase. This phase typically lasts for 7-10 days and is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries. These follicles contain eggs that will eventually be released during ovulation.

During this phase, estrogen levels in your body begin to rise, causing the lining of your uterus to thicken in preparation for a potential pregnancy. This is also the time when you may experience an increase in energy and libido, as well as clearer skin.

Phase 3: Ovulation

The third phase of a normal period cycle is ovulation. This is when one of the follicles in your ovaries releases an egg, which then travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary from person to person.

During ovulation, you may experience a slight increase in body temperature, as well as changes in cervical mucus. These changes are caused by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). If you are trying to conceive, this is the best time to have intercourse as it increases your chances of getting pregnant.

Phase 4: Luteal Phase

The final phase of a normal period cycle is the luteal phase. This phase lasts for approximately 14 days and is characterized by the release of the egg from the follicle. If the egg is not fertilized, the follicle will shrink and the levels of estrogen and progesterone will decrease.

During this phase, you may experience symptoms such as breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings. These symptoms are caused by the decrease in hormones and the shedding of the uterine lining. If the egg is fertilized, it will implant itself in the lining of the uterus and pregnancy will occur.

Understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle can help you better track your menstrual cycle and identify any irregularities. It is important to remember that every woman’s cycle is unique and can vary from month to month. If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, experiencing a period is a normal and natural part of being a woman. By understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle, you can better prepare for the changes in your body and take care of your overall health and well-being. Remember to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Demystifying the Menstrual Cycle: Exploring Each Phase in Detail

Have you ever wondered what exactly happens during your menstrual cycle? Or why you experience certain symptoms at different times of the month? Understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle can help demystify the menstrual cycle and give you a better understanding of your body.

The menstrual cycle is the monthly process that prepares a woman’s body for pregnancy. It is controlled by hormones and typically lasts 28 days, although it can vary from person to person. The four phases of a normal period cycle are the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, the ovulation phase, and the luteal phase. Let’s explore each phase in detail.

The first phase of the menstrual cycle is the menstrual phase, also known as the bleeding phase. This phase typically lasts 3-7 days and is when the lining of the uterus sheds, resulting in menstrual bleeding. During this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels are low, which can cause symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and mood swings. It is important to note that while menstrual bleeding is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, excessive bleeding or severe pain may be a sign of a larger issue and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

After the menstrual phase comes the follicular phase. This phase is also known as the pre-ovulation phase and lasts from 7-21 days. During this phase, the body prepares for ovulation by producing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce follicles. These follicles contain eggs, and as they grow, they release estrogen, which thickens the lining of the uterus. This phase is also when the body produces luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation.

The third phase of the menstrual cycle is the ovulation phase. This is when the mature egg is released from the ovary and travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This phase typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary from person to person. Ovulation is the most fertile time of the menstrual cycle, and if the egg is fertilized by sperm, it can result in pregnancy. During this phase, estrogen levels peak, which can cause an increase in libido and energy levels.

The final phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase. This phase lasts from 10-16 days and is when the body prepares for pregnancy. After ovulation, the follicle that released the egg turns into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone helps thicken the lining of the uterus, preparing it for a fertilized egg to implant. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, and progesterone levels drop, signaling the start of a new menstrual cycle.

Understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle can help you better track your menstrual cycle and understand your body’s natural rhythm. It is important to note that every person’s menstrual cycle is unique, and variations in cycle length and symptoms are normal. However, if you experience irregular periods or severe symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

In addition to understanding the phases of the menstrual cycle, it is also essential to take care of your overall health during this time. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest can help alleviate symptoms and support a healthy menstrual cycle. Exercise can also be beneficial, as it can help reduce cramping and improve mood.

In conclusion, the menstrual cycle is a natural and normal process that prepares a woman’s body for pregnancy. The four phases of a normal period cycle are the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, the ovulation phase, and the luteal phase. Each phase is controlled by hormones and plays a crucial role in the overall menstrual cycle. By understanding these phases, you can better understand your body and take care of your health during this time. Remember, if you have any concerns or experience irregularities, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

From Menstruation to Ovulation: A Breakdown of the 4 Phases of a Period

Ah, the dreaded period. Every month, like clockwork, it arrives to wreak havoc on our bodies and emotions. But did you know that there are actually four distinct phases that make up a normal period cycle? That’s right, it’s not just about the bleeding. In this article, we’ll break down each phase and explain what’s happening in your body during each one.

Phase 1: Menstruation

The first phase of a period cycle is menstruation, also known as your period. This is when the lining of your uterus sheds, resulting in bleeding. On average, this phase lasts about 3-7 days, but can vary from person to person. During this time, your estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest, which can lead to symptoms like cramping, bloating, and mood swings.

But why does this happen? Well, your body is preparing for a potential pregnancy every month. When an egg is not fertilized, the lining of the uterus is no longer needed and is shed through the vagina. This is a completely normal and necessary process for your reproductive health.

Phase 2: The Follicular Phase

After menstruation ends, the follicular phase begins. This phase can last anywhere from 7-21 days, depending on the length of your cycle. During this time, your body is preparing to release an egg for potential fertilization. The pituitary gland in your brain releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of follicles in your ovaries. These follicles contain eggs, and as they grow, they produce estrogen.

As estrogen levels rise, it thickens the lining of the uterus in preparation for a potential pregnancy. This phase is also when you may experience an increase in energy and libido, as well as clearer skin. Your body is gearing up for ovulation, which brings us to the next phase.

Phase 3: Ovulation

Ovulation is the most important phase of the menstrual cycle, as it is the only time during the month when you can get pregnant. This usually occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary. During ovulation, the mature follicle bursts open and releases an egg into the fallopian tube. This egg will then travel towards the uterus, where it can potentially be fertilized by sperm.

If you’re trying to get pregnant, this is the time to have sex. Sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to 5 days, so having sex a few days before ovulation can still result in pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilized, it will disintegrate within 24 hours and the hormone levels in your body will start to decrease.

Phase 4: The Luteal Phase

The final phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase, which begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of your next period. During this time, the ruptured follicle turns into a structure called the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone helps to maintain the thickened lining of the uterus and prepares the body for pregnancy.

If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum will disintegrate, causing a drop in progesterone levels. This signals the start of a new cycle and the shedding of the uterine lining, starting the whole process over again.

Understanding the four phases of a normal period cycle can help you better understand your body and its natural rhythms. It’s important to remember that every person’s cycle is unique and can vary in length and symptoms. If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

So the next time Aunt Flo comes to visit, remember that it’s not just about the bleeding. Your body is going through a complex and amazing process to prepare for potential pregnancy. And now, armed with this knowledge, you can appreciate the different phases of your period cycle and all that your body is capable of.

The Inner Workings of Your Body: A Closer Look at the 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Have you ever wondered what exactly happens inside your body during your period? It may seem like a simple process of shedding the uterine lining, but there is actually a complex series of events that occur in a woman’s body every month. This is known as the menstrual cycle, and it consists of four distinct phases. Understanding these phases can help you better understand your body and its natural processes.

Phase 1: Menstruation

The first phase of the menstrual cycle is menstruation, also known as your period. This is when the lining of the uterus, which has built up in preparation for a potential pregnancy, is shed. This shedding is what causes the bleeding that most women experience during their period. On average, a period lasts for about 3-7 days, but this can vary from woman to woman.

During this phase, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body are at their lowest. This drop in hormones triggers the shedding of the uterine lining. As the lining is shed, it also releases prostaglandins, which can cause cramping and discomfort for some women. This is a normal part of the menstrual cycle and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Phase 2: Follicular Phase

After menstruation ends, the body enters the follicular phase. This phase is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries, which contain eggs. These follicles produce estrogen, which helps thicken the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. As the follicles grow, one will become dominant and release an egg during ovulation.

The follicular phase can last anywhere from 7-21 days, with the average being around 14 days. During this phase, women may experience an increase in energy and libido due to the rise in estrogen levels. This is also a good time to focus on self-care and nourishing your body with healthy foods and exercise.

Phase 3: Ovulation

Ovulation is the most important phase of the menstrual cycle, as it is the only time during the cycle when a woman can become pregnant. This is when the dominant follicle releases an egg, which then travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary from woman to woman.

During ovulation, estrogen levels peak and then drop, triggering the release of luteinizing hormone (LH). This surge in LH is what causes the follicle to release the egg. Some women may experience mild cramping or spotting during ovulation, which is known as mittelschmerz. This is a normal occurrence and usually only lasts for a day or two.

Phase 4: Luteal Phase

The final phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase, which begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next period. During this phase, the follicle that released the egg transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone helps thicken the uterine lining even further, preparing it for a potential pregnancy.

If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum will eventually break down, causing a drop in progesterone levels. This drop in hormones signals the start of a new menstrual cycle and the shedding of the uterine lining. If the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum will continue to produce progesterone to support the pregnancy.

Understanding the four phases of the menstrual cycle can help women better understand their bodies and their natural rhythms. It is important to note that every woman’s cycle is unique and can vary in length and symptoms. If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. Remember, your period is a natural and normal part of being a woman, and understanding your body can help you embrace and appreciate it even more.

Hey beautiful people,

Let’s talk periods. Yeah, I know – sometimes it feels like the most ‘hush-hush’ topic in our communities, the kind of thing we whisper about with our aunties or close girlfriends. But honestly, periods are a natural part of life for many of us. They’re a sign of our bodies working their magic, and it’s time we talked about them openly, honestly, and without any shame. Think of this as a big, virtual “chama” where we share our experiences, offer support, and learn from each other.

The Monthly Dance: Understanding Menstrual Pain

Let’s kick things off with menstrual pain, or as it’s known in medical circles, dysmenorrhea. Now, I know some of us sail through our periods with barely a twinge. Perhaps you only experience a mild heaviness in the tummy or a slight pull in the pelvic region. But for others, it’s like a full-on battle with severe cramps that make you want to curl up in bed and not move for days. Let’s be real, that intense pain can truly interfere with our daily lives – whether it’s making it to the market, studying for exams, or just hanging out with friends.

• Primary Dysmenorrhea: This is the most common type, and it’s like our uterus is having a mini dance-off. It contracts to help shed the uterine lining, and these contractions can cause pain. Teen girls, this is especially common after your first period. The good news is, it usually gets better as we get older. However, let’s not dismiss those experiencing intense pain.
• Secondary Dysmenorrhea: This type is often caused by an underlying health issue. The pain tends to get worse as we age and can last longer than regular cramps.
  • Conditions like endometriosis, where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can cause swelling, pain, and can be quite a challenge. Imagine your womb lining going on an unplanned tour to other parts of your body – quite the troublemaker, right?
  • Uterine fibroids, non-cancerous tumours that grow in or on the uterus, can also lead to pelvic pain and even bleeding at unexpected times.
  • Ovarian cysts, those fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries, usually don’t cause trouble, but some can cause pain during periods or ovulation.

Actionable Insights

• Over-the-counter relief: Most period pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like naproxen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. Starting these when your period begins can ease the pain, and also help reduce heavy bleeding. It’s like preparing for battle by being proactive.
• Track your cycle: Keep a diary or use an app to track your periods and symptoms. This will not only help you understand your body’s rhythms but also provide useful data for your doctor to assist with diagnosis if needed.
• Don’t suffer in silence: If over-the-counter meds don’t help, or the pain interferes with your daily life, please see a doctor. This is not a weakness! It’s about taking care of your body.

My Period is Acting Up: Irregular Periods

Now, let’s talk about irregular periods. For some of us, the monthly cycle is as predictable as the sunrise. But for others, it can feel a bit like a rollercoaster. An irregular period means your cycle is shorter than 24 days or longer than 38 days. It can also mean your cycle length varies wildly from month to month – one month you’re at 25 days and the next you’re at 46. Think of it as a monthly mystery novel!

Irregular periods are quite common during teenage years and in perimenopause – that period when we are transitioning to menopause. Your cycles might be all over the place at these times.

But there are other reasons why your period might be acting up:

• Eating Disorders: Irregular or missed periods can be a sign of eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia or binge eating.
• Thyroid Issues: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, where your thyroid is overactive, can also make periods lighter and less frequent.
• Hormonal Imbalances: High levels of prolactin (the hormone that helps with breast milk production), or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can lead to irregular periods.
• Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): When your ovaries stop working properly before the age of 40, this is different from early menopause and you may still have irregular periods.
• Other Factors: Stress, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, certain medications and even infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can throw your cycle off balance.

Actionable Insights

• Recognise the pattern: Keep track of your period cycles. If things suddenly become irregular after being normal, that’s a red flag.
• Doctor’s visit: Visit your doctor, if your cycle is more frequent than every 24 days or less frequent than every 38 days, you should seek medical advice.
• Hormonal Birth Control: Your doctor might suggest hormonal birth control to help regulate your cycles. This isn’t just about preventing pregnancy – it can also be used to manage other menstrual health concerns.

When the Flow is Too Much: Heavy Bleeding

Let’s now delve into heavy bleeding. Now, there is a big difference between a regular period flow, and a flood! If you find yourself feeling like you’re bleeding way too much – so much so that it makes it difficult to go to work or school – then you are most likely experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding. It is more than just a nuisance; it can also impact your daily life.

What could be behind this heavy flow?

• Ovulation Problems: If your hormones are out of balance, the uterine lining can build up too much and bleed heavily.
• Uterine Lining Issues: An imbalance in your uterine lining can also cause excessive bleeding.
• Thyroid Problems: Hypothyroidism, where your thyroid is underactive, can also contribute to heavy periods.
• Fibroids and Polyps: As we’ve discussed, uterine fibroids and polyps can be major culprits.
• Other medical factors: Certain medications, pregnancy complications, and bleeding disorders like hemophilia can also play a part.
• Obesity: Like with irregular periods, excess fat in the body can produce extra estrogen, which can impact your menstrual cycle.
• ME/CFS: Some research suggests that women with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome may also have a higher risk for heavy bleeding.

Actionable Insights

• Track your flow: Note how long your period lasts, and if you’re using multiple pads or tampons within a short space of time. If your period is longer than eight days or you soak through pads/tampons every 1-2 hours, it’s time to see a doctor.
• Watch out for symptoms: Dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, chest pain, or trouble breathing during or after your period can be signs of anaemia (lack of iron).
• Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to visit the doctor if you have large clots in your menstrual flow.

Unexpected Bleeding: Abnormal Bleeding

Unusual bleeding refers to any bleeding that’s different from your normal period, or any bleeding outside of your normal cycle. Think spotting, unexpected bleeding, or bleeding after sex.

Here’s what might be behind it:

• Hormonal Changes: Changing hormone levels during puberty or perimenopause can cause irregular cycles or heavier periods.
• Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts: As we’ve seen, these can be sources of pain, and unusual bleeding.
• Serious Health Concerns: Bleeding after menopause, or certain types of bleeding could indicate serious health conditions such as uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer.

Actionable Insights

• Be mindful: Bleeding after sex or spotting between periods should prompt a visit to your doctor.
• Post-menopause bleeding: Any vaginal bleeding after menopause is a serious red flag and should be checked out immediately.
• Don’t wait: Your doctor may check for common issues, but it’s essential to seek medical advice for any unusual bleeding.

Where Did My Period Go?: Missing Periods

Okay, so what happens when your period goes MIA? Missing periods, or amenorrhea, can be alarming. It can mean that your ovaries are not producing normal amounts of oestrogen.

Here’s why it might happen:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: These are natural reasons to miss your period.
• Eating Disorders and Weight Issues: If your body fat is too low, or if you’ve experienced a dramatic change in weight, your period may disappear.
• Stress: Long-term, severe stress can affect the reproductive part of your brain and stop ovulation.
• Hormonal Problems: This includes PCOS or problems with the reproductive organs.
• Other Health Issues: Including tumors in the brain and birth defects.

Actionable Insights

• Know when to worry: If you haven’t had a period for three months in a row (and you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding), or haven’t started your period by age 15, consult your doctor.
• Breast development check: If your breasts have not started growing by age 13 or you have not had a period three years after breast growth started, then please see a doctor.

Headaches Around Your Period? Menstrual Migraine

Finally, let’s talk about those killer headaches that seem to coincide with our periods, often called menstrual migraine. About four out of ten women will experience a migraine at some point, and about half of these migraines happen around the time of their period. Hormones that control the menstrual cycle affect brain chemicals and can result in a painful headache.

Actionable Insights

• Identify Triggers: Stress, anxiety, and bright lights can trigger migraines. Keeping track of your migraine triggers can help manage them.
• Know When to See a Doctor: If your headaches change or treatments that once worked no longer help, it’s time to see a doctor. If you take hormonal birth control and have migraine with aura (seeing flashing lights) you also need to seek medical advice.
• Managing migraines: Treatment can include medication, or botox injections.

Let’s Wrap Up This Beautiful Conversation

Look, periods aren’t always a walk in the park, and I want you to know that your experiences, whatever they may be, are valid. Knowing what’s normal (and what isn’t) is crucial, and we don’t have to go through it alone. We are all unique, and our bodies respond to all these changes differently.

So, what’s the main takeaway from this conversation? Listen to your body. If something feels wrong, don’t ignore it or suffer in silence. It’s about knowing your body and taking the right action to get help. Talking to other women, and your doctor is a great place to start. Let’s continue supporting each other, and creating a safe, open space where we can all share, learn, and thrive.

Until next time, take good care of yourselves, and keep shining!

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Keywords used: menstrual pain, dysmenorrhea, irregular periods, heavy bleeding, abnormal bleeding, missing periods, amenorrhea, menstrual migraine, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, hormonal birth control, thyroid problems, stress, PCOS, eating disorders, anaemia.