Learn Everything about Menstruation and Menstruation Cycle

Everything About Menstruation and Menstruation Cycle

Woman share many health issues similar to man but she also has health issues of her own, which deserve special attention and differs from man in many unique ways. Menstruation is one of them, it is not only related to her reproductive system but also give an idea about her overall well being.

Learn Everything about Menstruation

Learn Everything about Menstruation

Menstruation is still a taboo topic for many of us. But recently people are breaking this taboo, with stories about woman health, importance of menstrual hygiene, reproductive and sexual health. In many developing countries (India is one of those) girls miss classes and may even drop out of school because of menstruation.

about menstruation

about menstruation

A healthy woman experiences a normal phenomenon known as the menstrual cycle, for about 30 – 40 years of her life. Regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus is called menstruation; it occurs every 25 – 35 days in a healthy woman. Bleeding usually lasts around 2 to 7 days. This cycle is very important because it is required for the production of the egg cell and prepares the uterus for pregnancy.

Every woman’s menstrual cycle is individual and unique. About 80% of woman experience few symptoms 1-2 weeks before menstruation. These symptoms include mood changes, nervousness, headaches, tender breast, pelvic pain, acne, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, feeling tired and irritability. When these symptoms make your daily routine difficult, the woman is said to have premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Menstruation stops occurring between 45 – 55 years of age, this is called menopause. Menstruation also stops during pregnancy and resume after delivery. The first periods usually commence between 12 – 15 years of age, this is called menarche. In few girls it can start as early as 9 and as late as 16.

Each menstrual cycle can be divided into following phases, each phase is controlled by hormones and the production of these hormones is directly dependent on the general well being of the woman.

Menstrual Cycle Can be Divided into Following Phases

Menstrual Cycle Can be Divided into Following Phases

Menstrual Cycle Can be Divided into Following Phases:

1. Menstrual Period –

Menstrual Period (from day 1 – 5) in case, when the egg does no fertilize, the intrauterine lining and the blood vessels are shed off in the form of the menstrual period, during this phase blood starts to come out of the vagina. The woman may experience abdominal cramps. These cramps are normal and are caused because of contraction of the uterine and abdominal muscles. This help in expelling the menstrual fluid

during the period

during the period

2. Follicular Phase –

Follicular Phase (from day 1 to 13) this phase comprises of the development of the egg. During this phase the pituitary gland secretes a hormone which stimulates the growth of egg cells in follicle. Egg cell reaches maturity after 13 days. Simultaneously the follicle secretes a hormone which stimulates the development of blood vessels and thickening of the intra-uterine lining.

3. Ovulation –

Ovulation (day 14) release of the egg takes place during this phase, the ovary releases a matured egg cell. Usually one egg is released each cycle.

4. Luteal Phase –

Luteal Phase (from day 15 to 28) in case the sperm cell do not impregnate the egg cell, it disintegrates.

The bleeding can vary in quality and quantity; it can vary in color from brown or black to red. The flow also changes over the course of the period. It is usually heavier for the initial 3 days and then lighter during next few days. Few Small clots are considered normal but larger frequent clots needs immediate attention and one should always see a doctor.

Menstrual Disorders

There are several variations in menstruation, which may be different from normal; they should be discussed with doctors for proper identification of underlying cause:

Such as infrequent periods, short and extremely light periods, too – frequent periods, extremely heavy periods, extremely painful periods, an absence of periods etc.

Menstrual Management Practices

Menstrual Management Practices help in maintain hygiene and avoid damage to clothing. A number of options are available like pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Whichever option you use, always follow the instructions for use of the product of your choice.

Menstrual Management Practices

Menstrual Management Practices

Your menstrual cycle is a healthy routine for your body. In case you notice any change in your cycle always seeks advice of a doctor.

Dr. Reena Prajapat
Dr Reena Prajapat is a dentist, she post graduated in hospital management from Apollo Institute of hospital Administration, Hyderabad. Her strong belief in natural and home remedies lead her to Pursue bachelor in naturopathy.