what menstruation actually is
menstruation, commonly known as a period, is the shedding of the womb lining that occurs when pregnancy has not happened in a given cycle. it marks both the end of one menstrual cycle and the start of the next, which is why day one of bleeding is used as day one of the cycle when counting cycle length.
why it happens
throughout the cycle, the lining of the womb, known as the endometrium, thickens under the influence of oestrogen and progesterone, building up a nutrient rich lining in case a fertilised egg needs somewhere to implant. if fertilisation does not occur, levels of these hormones fall towards the end of the luteal phase. without their support, the lining can no longer be maintained, so it breaks down and is shed through the vagina as a period.
what a period involves
menstrual flow is made up of blood, along with tissue from the womb lining. flow and colour often change over the course of a period, sometimes starting lighter, becoming heavier, and tapering off towards the end, though patterns vary between individuals.
how long does a period last?
periods commonly last somewhere between around two and eight days, with many people finding their own typical length stays fairly similar from cycle to cycle, even if it does not exactly match anyone else's pattern.
common experiences during a period
- cramping in the lower abdomen, caused by the womb contracting to help shed its lining
- lower back ache
- tiredness or low energy
- changes in mood
- headaches for some people
mild to moderate cramping and discomfort are common and generally considered a normal part of menstruation, though everyone's experience is different, and some people have very few symptoms at all.
looking after yourself during your period
simple measures such as using a hot water bottle, gentle movement, staying hydrated and getting enough rest can help many people feel more comfortable during their period. over the counter pain relief can also help with cramping for some people, though it is worth checking with a pharmacist or healthcare professional if you are unsure what is suitable for you.
when to seek advice
while periods vary a great deal between individuals, some patterns are worth discussing with a healthcare professional, including very heavy bleeding, periods that last much longer than usual, severe pain that disrupts daily life, or any sudden, unexplained change to your usual pattern. these changes do not automatically mean something is wrong, but a healthcare professional can help work out what is going on and offer appropriate support.