What is menstruation?
The monthly shedding of the uterus lining.
- Each month the uterus builds a lining to prepare for pregnancy.
- If no pregnancy occurs, the lining sheds as a period.
- Bleeding usually lasts about 3–7 days.
- It's a normal, healthy sign the reproductive system is working.
The menstrual cycle
A roughly monthly rhythm, driven by hormones.
- The cycle is counted from day 1 of one period to day 1 of the next.
- It averages about 28 days but 21–35 days is normal.
- Ovulation — the egg's release — happens around the middle.
- Hormones rise and fall to drive each phase.
Ovulation and fertility
There are days each cycle when pregnancy is most likely.
- Ovulation is when an ovary releases an egg.
- The days around ovulation are the most fertile.
- Sperm can survive several days, widening the fertile window.
- Knowing this helps with both planning and preventing pregnancy.
What's normal — and what's not
Know your own pattern so you notice changes.
| Feature | Usually normal | Worth checking |
|---|
| Cycle length | 21–35 days | Very irregular or suddenly changed |
| Period length | 3–7 days | Longer than 7–8 days |
| Flow | Light to moderate | Soaking a pad/hour for hours |
| Cramps | Mild, manageable | Severe pain that stops daily life |
| Between periods | No bleeding | Bleeding between periods or after sex |
Everyone's normal is a little different — what matters is a big change from your own pattern.
Key terms
- Menstruation: The monthly shedding of the uterus lining as a period.
- Menstrual cycle: The monthly rhythm from day 1 of one period to the next.
- Ovulation: When an ovary releases an egg, around mid-cycle.
- Fertile window: The days around ovulation when pregnancy is most likely.
- PMS: Premenstrual symptoms like mood or cramps before a period.
- Menopause: When periods naturally stop, usually around age 45–55.
Tracking your cycle
A simple record reveals your pattern.
- Mark the first day of each period on a calendar or app.
- Over a few months, you'll see your usual cycle length.
- Note flow, cramps, and mood to spot patterns.
- Tracking helps with planning, prevention, and noticing problems.
Myth or reality?
Tap each statement about periods.
- Menstruation is dirty or shameful (Myth) — A period is a normal, healthy sign — not dirty. Silence and stigma cause harm, not periods.
- You can get pregnant around the time of ovulation (Reality) — The days around ovulation are the most fertile — pregnancy is most likely then.
- You must avoid bathing or normal activity during a period (Myth) — Washing and normal activity are fine and healthy during a period.
- Severe period pain that stops daily life is worth checking (Reality) — Very painful periods can have treatable causes — see a health worker.
Managing periods hygienically
Simple, safe practices for comfort and health.
- Use a clean pad, cloth, cup, or tampon and change it regularly.
- Wash hands before and after changing; wash the body normally.
- Dry reusable cloths fully in sunlight; store them clean.
- Dispose of used materials safely.
Easing period discomfort
Common symptoms are usually manageable.
- Cramps: a warm cloth, gentle activity, and rest can help.
- Stay hydrated and eat regular, balanced meals.
- Pain relief as advised by a health worker can help.
- Mood changes before a period (PMS) are common and pass.
The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, but anywhere from 21 to 35 days is normal. Cycles can vary from month to month, especially in the first years after periods begin.
Normal or worth checking?
Tap each, then whether it's usually normal or worth checking.
- A period lasting 3–7 days (Usually normal)
- Mild, manageable cramps (Usually normal)
- A cycle of 21–35 days (Usually normal)
- Soaking a pad every hour for hours (Worth checking)
- Bleeding between periods or after sex (Worth checking)
- Severe pain that stops daily life (Worth checking)
When to see a health worker
These signs deserve medical advice.
- Very heavy bleeding, or soaking through protection quickly.
- Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.
- Periods that suddenly stop (and pregnancy is possible or not).
- Severe pain, or periods so painful they disrupt your life.
Periods, dignity, and support
No one should miss out because of their period.
- Girls shouldn't miss school or work due to periods.
- Access to clean materials and private facilities matters.
- Talking openly reduces stigma and shame.
- Partners and families can be supportive, not dismissive.
Recap & what's next
- A period is a normal, healthy monthly process.
- Track your cycle to know your pattern and fertile window.
- Manage periods hygienically; ease discomfort simply.
- Next: family planning and contraception.
