5 Tips of What’s Normal and what’s not about a Menstrual Cycle

When it comes to menstruation, tons of facts revolve around the universe. Google says something while people say something. Your menstrual cycle speaks a lot about your overall health and therefore knowing what is normal and what is not about your menstrual cycle is extremely important. But with all the information available on the internet makes you confused about what to believe and what to not then we have got you covered. Be it period cramps or exercising, here is everything you should know about a menstrual cycle.

Here is what’s normal about a menstrual cycle

• Regular period: the normal menstrual cycle is 28-30 days but it can also be different for different women. Your menstrual cycle is considered regular and healthy if you are getting your periods every 24 to 38 days. Understanding your menstrual cycle is the key. Always track your menstrual cycle and make notes of the start date, end date, and flow to know if you are getting regular or normal periods or not.
• Spotting: Spotting happens due to the quick rush and drop in estrogen levels and can also happen during the reproductive age. Spotting can sometimes be a sign of hormonal changes, injury or underlying health condition. If the spotting does not fade away naturally, then try consulting a health expert.
• Clotting: A lot of women experience blood clots during the period and there is nothing to worry about. There are various causes of blood clots like hormonal changes such as menopause, stress, weight gain or loss, physical changes, uterine obstructions, noncancerous fibroids inside the lining of the uterus, miscarriage and many others. The smaller clots of blood (generally size of a quarter) are quite normal and there is nothing to worry about such clots of blood. Such blood clots during periods are not harmful or dangerous and won’t signify any health complication. However, larger blood clots on a regular basis can be a cause of the medical condition and if you are experiencing this every time and every day during menstruation then you should definitely seek the advice of a health expert.
• PMS: Many people said that there is nothing like PMS and it’s all in the head but PMS does exist and it starts one to two week before menstruation. There are various symptoms of PMS including breast tenderness, acne on the skin, headaches, joint pain, fatigue and food cravings.
• Period cramps: A lot of women experience period cramps during or before the menstrual cycle. Some stomach and body pain, cramps and discomfort are all common during menstruation. During the periods, your uterus contracts to expel its lining which results in cramping and inflammation. Exercising can make your period cramps get better. It is not important to do gymming and high-intensity workout to battle the period cramps and pain. You can simply go for a brisk walk and can easily fight menstrual discomfort.

Here’s what is not normal about a menstrual cycle

• Irregular period: The time between each period is almost the same, it might be delayed or come early by a day or two. But if you are noticing a substantial difference between your every menstrual cycle then it is not normal. Hormonal changes, stress, poor diet, weight loss or weight gain can be a reason for the irregular period. Health complications like fibroid uterus, uterus cancer, ovarian cancer, pelvic inflammatory diseases, pregnancy, breastfeeding and polycystic ovarian diseases can also be a reason for the irregular period. If you are noticing a sudden change in your menstrual cycle, then do consult a doctor.
• A regular occurrence of heavier bleeding: It is said that heavy bleeding is a sign of unhealthy inner you and problems but the amount of bleeding depends upon women. Some days a woman can get heavy flow while some days the bleeding might be normal. There is nothing to worry about it as long as you are suffering from abnormally hefty menstrual bleeding, which is also known as menorrhagia. If you feel weak and notice abnormal bleeding then you should definitely talk to your doctor.
• Bleeding longer than usual: Yes, it is true that periods generally last from three to five days but generally there is also nothing wrong with a shorter and longer cycle of the period. Periods can also last for a minimum of two days and as long as seven days and there is nothing to worry about it. But if you are suffering from longer bleeding than usual frequently then it is a matter of concern. Always count your days and if your period lasts for a single day or more than a week then it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Footnote

So, don’t believe what others say! Just find out what is correct to make the inner you happy and healthy during that crucial time of the month. We shed light on the important regulars and irregulars around menstruation above. Make sure to see a doctor if you are suffering from any of the irregularities.