What is Menstruation?
Menstruation, commonly called your period, is a natural process that occurs in people with female reproductive systems. It's the monthly shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy doesn't occur. This process is part of the menstrual cycle, which typically lasts 21-35 days.
During menstruation, blood and tissue from the uterus flow through the cervix and out of the vagina. This is completely normal and healthy, though it can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're first starting out.
When Does Menstruation Start?
Most people get their first period between the ages of 9 and 16, with the average age being around 12-13. However, everyone's body develops at its own pace, so there's a wide range of what's considered normal.
Signs Your First Period is Coming
- Breast development (usually 2-3 years before first period)
- Pubic and underarm hair growth
- Vaginal discharge (white or clear, usually starts 6-12 months before)
- Growth spurt
- Mood changes and PMS-like symptoms
How Long Does a Period Last?
A typical period lasts 3-7 days, with most people experiencing 4-5 days of bleeding. The amount of blood varies throughout the period:
Days 1-2: Heavy Flow
Usually the heaviest days with bright red blood. You might need to change your pad or tampon every 2-4 hours.
Days 3-4: Medium Flow
Moderate bleeding that gradually decreases. You might change protection every 4-6 hours.
Days 5-7: Light Flow
Light spotting or very light bleeding. You might only need a panty liner or light pad.
What's Normal vs. What's Not
Understanding what's normal for your period can help you identify when something might need medical attention.
✅ Normal Period Characteristics
- Cycle length: 21-35 days (average 28 days)
- Period duration: 3-7 days
- Blood color: Bright red to dark red/brown
- Flow: Varies from light to heavy
- Some cramping and discomfort
- Mild mood changes
⚠️ When to See a Doctor
- No period by age 16
- Periods stop for 3+ months
- Very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad/tampon every hour)
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days
- Severe pain that prevents normal activities
- Bleeding between periods
Managing Your Period
There are several options for managing menstrual flow, and what works best for you might change over time.
Menstrual Products
Pads
Stick to your underwear and absorb blood. Good for beginners and overnight use. Change every 4-6 hours.
Tampons
Inserted into the vagina to absorb blood. Good for swimming and active lifestyles. Change every 4-8 hours.
Menstrual Cups
Reusable silicone cups that collect blood. Eco-friendly and can be worn for up to 12 hours.
Period Underwear
Absorbent underwear that can replace or supplement other products. Washable and reusable.
Common Period Symptoms
It's completely normal to experience various symptoms before and during your period. These are caused by hormonal changes in your body.
Physical Symptoms
- Cramps in the lower abdomen
- Bloating and water retention
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches or migraines
- Fatigue and low energy
- Back pain
Emotional Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Anxiety or depression
- Food cravings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep patterns
Tips for Managing Period Discomfort
For Cramps
- Apply heat (heating pad, hot water bottle)
- Gentle exercise or stretching
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Relaxation techniques
For Bloating
- Reduce salt intake
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach)
- Light exercise like walking
For Mood Changes
- Get enough sleep
- Maintain a regular routine
- Practice stress management
- Talk to someone you trust
Tracking Your Period
Keeping track of your menstrual cycle can help you understand your body better and identify patterns. You can track:
- Start and end dates of your period
- Flow intensity (light, medium, heavy)
- Symptoms you experience
- Mood changes
- Sleep patterns
- Any irregularities
This information can be helpful when talking to healthcare providers and can help you predict when your next period will start.
Ready to Start Tracking Your Cycle?
Use bloom to track your periods, symptoms, and cycle patterns with complete privacy. Your data stays on your device, always.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have irregular periods when you first start?
Yes, it's completely normal for periods to be irregular for the first 1-2 years after they start. Your body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes, and cycles can vary in length and flow.
How much blood do you lose during a period?
Most people lose between 30-80ml (about 2-6 tablespoons) of blood during their entire period. It might look like more because it's mixed with other fluids and tissue.
Can you get pregnant during your period?
While less likely, it is possible to get pregnant during your period, especially if you have shorter cycles or irregular periods. Sperm can live in the body for up to 5 days.
Should I be concerned about blood clots during my period?
Small blood clots (smaller than a quarter) are normal and usually nothing to worry about. However, if you have large clots or they're accompanied by heavy bleeding, talk to your doctor.