Menstruation is the process in which the uterus sheds blood and tissue through the vagina. This is a natural and healthy process for girls and women of reproductive age.
Menstruation is part of the menstrual cycle – a cycle of biological changes that take place in a woman or girl’s reproductive system to prepare her body for a potential pregnancy. The changes are triggered by hormones, which are natural chemicals in the body. This cycle begins when a girl reaches puberty and continues until she reaches the end of her fertility (also known as menopause, at which time menstrual cycles end).
The menstrual cycle is roughly 28 days long, but it can be shorter or longer. It begins with menstruation (considered day 1 of the cycle). Menstruation is the shedding of the lining of the uterus and the remnants of the unfertilized egg. It continues with an increase in the hormone estrogen, and the lining of the uterus becomes thick and spongy again (typically days 6-8). An egg is released from one of the ovaries, called “ovulation” (around day 14, but this can vary), then the egg moves through the fallopian tube towards the uterus (typically day 15-24). If the egg is not fertilized, it will not be implanted in the uterine wall but instead fall apart, and hormone levels such as estrogen and progesterone, will drop. This process is followed by the start of a new cycle.
Menstruation is often different from person to person, and even one person can experience very different periods over their lifetime. This is often healthy and normal. But when menstruation prevents people from engaging in regular activities, medical attention is required. Unfortunately, lack of attention to, and education about, menstruation means that many women and girls suffer for years without receiving care.
Most people who menstruate experience some physical or emotional discomfort known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) about a week before or during the first few days of their menstrual periods. PMS manifests differently in different people and may vary between menstruation cycles. The most common symptoms during PMS include changes in appetite, backaches, acne, bloating, headaches, depression, feelings of sadness, tension or anxiety, irritability, sweating, tender breasts, water retention, constipation or diarrhea, trouble concentrating, insomnia and tiredness. For some, these symptoms can be so severe that they miss work or school, while others are not bothered.
Menstrual irregularities can result from a myriad of factors. Hormonal imbalances, stress, excessive exercise, certain medical conditions (such as polycystic ovary syndrome or thyroid disorders), and fluctuations in weight can all contribute to irregular menstrual cycles.
Period cramps, scientifically known as dysmenorrhea, can be alleviated through various methods. Applying heat to the lower abdomen, engaging in regular physical activity, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help manage cramps. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and sufficient hydration, may contribute to overall menstrual well-being.
Menstruation stops during pregnancy due to the physiological changes in the body and resumes after childbirth. However, it permanently ceases during menopause, which typically occurs in a woman’s late 40s or early 50s. However, it’s essential to note that women’s experiences may differ.
