Menstrual health is a vital aspect of women’s overall wellbeing, yet it’s often surrounded by myths and misconceptions. We go back to the basics to help you better understand your cycle.
What is the menstrual cycle?
Your menstrual cycle is a monthly process where the body gets ready for pregnancy. A cycle typically lasts between 21 and 35 days, with an average of 28 days.
The cycle begins on the first day of menstruation (your period) and ends on the day before the next period starts 1.
Phases of your menstrual cycle
The cycle is divided into four main phases 1:
- Menstrual: This is when the lining of the uterus sheds, leading to menstrual bleeding, which usually lasts between three to seven days.
- Follicular: During this phase, the body prepares to release an egg by thickening the uterine lining, which lasts for 13 to 14 days (about 2 weeks).
- Ovulation: Around the middle of the cycle, an egg is released from the ovary, which can be fertilised if sperm is present. This usually happens once a month and about two weeks before your next period.
- Luteal: If the egg is not fertilised, the body prepares to shed the uterine lining, leading to the start of the next menstrual phase.
While everyone’s normal may be different, certain patterns are considered ‘normal’, including 2:
- Your period occurring every 21 to 35 days
- Your period lasting between three to seven days
- Common symptoms like mild cramping, mood changes and more, but these shouldn’t interfere with daily tasks.
Common menstrual health issues
While many people experience ‘normal periods’, it’s not uncommon for others to experience issues, which include 3:
- Amenorrhoea, which is where a woman has no period
- Dysmenorrhoea, which is the medical name for painful periods. If the pain is severe, you should seek medical advice from your healthcare professional
- Menorrhagia, which is heavy menstrual bleeding that lasts more than seven days or requires you to change your period products every one to two hours
- Irregular periods, which are longer than 35 days, shorter than 21 days or absent for more than 21 months
If you’re experiencing menstrual health challenges or have noticed changes in your cycle, please speak to your local healthcare provider who can help provide guidance and may run tests if necessary.
Maintain your menstrual health
You can maintain your menstrual health by 2:
- Tracking your cycle: Keeping a menstrual diary or using a tracking app on your phone can help you understand your cycle’s regularity and identify any unusual patterns. You can use this helpful information to discuss your menstrual health with your doctor or healthcare provider.
- Introduce a balanced diet and exercise regularly: A nutritious diet and regular physical activity can help regulate your menstrual cycle and alleviate some symptoms like cramps or bloating.
- Manage your stress: High stress levels can impact your menstrual cycle. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and adequate sleep can help manage stress and support your menstrual health.
Understanding your menstrual cycle is crucial for overall health and wellbeing. It's not just about knowing when your period will start; it's about recognising the signs of a healthy cycle and identifying any irregularities.
How your pharmacy can support your menstrual health
Your local pharmacy can be a valuable resource in managing your menstrual health. Pharmacists can offer guidance on various menstrual products, from traditional pads and tampons to more sustainable options like menstrual cups.
They can also recommend over-the-counter medications to help with symptoms and vitamin or supplement options which may support overall reproductive health.
References
1Better Health Victoria, The menstrual cycle, accessed 16 August 2024
2HealthDirect, Menstruation (periods), accessed 16 August 2024
3Family Planning Australia, Period Problems, accessed 16 August 2024