Menstruation, also known as a period or menstrual cycle, is a natural biological process in women and people with a female reproductive system. This cycle, lasting about 28 days on average, is the sign of sexual maturity and fertility. Menstruation begins at puberty and continues until menopause, around age 45-55. Each month, the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, thickens in anticipation of a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the endometrium disintegrates and is pushed out of the uterus, a process known as menstrual bleeding. Common symptoms include cramps, bloating, mood swings and headaches. Menstruation is an important indicator of reproductive health, and any significant changes in the cycle may require medical consultation. Menstrual hygiene methods include tampons, sanitary napkins, menstrual cups, and absorbent underwear. Menstrual hygiene management and access to sanitary products are essential for women’s health and well-being.
During menstruation, the body expels the inner layer of the uterus, the endometrium, which has thickened to prepare for a possible pregnancy. If no fertilized egg implants in the endometrium, hormone levels, including estrogen and progesterone, drop. This hormonal drop triggers the desquamation of the endometrium, which is then evacuated from the body in the form of vaginal bleeding. This process is often accompanied by cramping, due to the uterus contracting to help expel the tissue. Symptoms may also include bloating, headaches, mood changes, and pain in the lower back and breasts.
The length of periods varies from person to person, but is generally 3 to 7 days. It depends on various factors, such as age, health conditions, diet, stress and physical activity. The average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 35 days in adults and 21 to 45 days in adolescents. The amount of bleeding may also vary. Menstrual periods that are too long or too short, or a significant change in the usual length of periods, may indicate an underlying health problem.
Periods start as part of the menstrual cycle, regulated by hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Each month, these hormones prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy by thickening the endometrium. If no eggs are fertilized, hormonal levels drop, causing the endometrium to slough. This tissue, along with blood, is passed from the uterus, through the cervix, and out of the body through the vagina. This process is influenced by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which regulate hormone production.
False periods, or break-through bleeding, can occur outside of the normal menstrual cycle. They can be confused with regular periods, but are generally lighter and shorter in duration. This bleeding may be due to hormonal changes, use of hormonal birth control, stress, eating disorders, thyroid problems, or abnormalities of the uterus or ovaries. It is important to see a doctor if irregular or unexpected bleeding occurs, as it may be a sign of an underlying health problem.
Period abnormalities can take many forms, such as amenorrhea (absence of periods), dysmenorrhea (painful periods), menorrhagia (heavy periods), and oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods). Amenorrhea can be caused by pregnancy, stress, low body weight, hormonal problems, or disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Dysmenorrhea can be caused by conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Menorrhagia can be the result of hormonal imbalances, bleeding disorders, or uterine polyps. Each abnormality requires medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Periods are considered abnormal if they have unusual characteristics in terms of duration, frequency, quantity and regularity. Signs of abnormal menstruation include very short (less than 21 days) or very long (more than 35 days) cycles, excessively heavy or very light bleeding, painful periods that interfere with daily activities, bleeding between periods , or the absence of periods for several cycles. These abnormalities may be a symptom of medical conditions, hormonal imbalance, stress, weight changes, or the use of certain medications. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate these symptoms.
Rules can be disrupted for various reasons. Hormonal fluctuations are a common cause, especially during times of intense stress, significant weight changes, or when taking certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives. Eating disorders, excessive exercise, and certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or uterine fibroids can also affect the regularity of menstruation. Cycle changes are also common as you approach menopause. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause of menstrual irregularities and get the appropriate treatment.
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