Periods are kind of our thing.. but we know it can be super confusing. Our resident doctor Natasha Ramsey MD MPH FAAP (@gorjusdoc) is going to explain what happens during a period, why it happens, and how to handle it like a pro.
Ready babe? Let’s go!
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Ovaries: Two small glands that produce eggs (ova) and hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
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Fallopian Tubes: Tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization usually happens here.
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Uterus: A muscular organ where a fertilized egg implants and grows into a pregnancy. The lining of the uterus sheds during menstruation if no fertilization occurs.
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Cervix: The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
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Vagina: A muscular canal that connects the cervix to the outside of the body. It’s involved in menstruation, intercourse, and childbirth.
The menstrual cycle is a normal and natural monthly process that prepares your body for pregnancy. During this cycle, your body goes through a series of changes, driven by hormones, to get ready for a potential pregnancy.
Every month, the uterus (the place where a baby would grow if you were pregnant) builds up a special lining called the endometrium, like a soft cushion, to prepare for a fertilized egg.
If the egg gets fertilized by sperm it implants into the endometrium and develops into a pregnancy.
If the egg does not get fertilized (which means no pregnancy), your body says, “Hey, we don’t need this!” and it sheds the cushiony lining.
The lining of the uterus along with blood comes out of the vagina. This is called menstruation also known as a period.
A period is only one part of the menstrual cycle, but there is so much more!
Each part of the menstrual cycle involves the brain, the ovaries, and the uterus.
Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)
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This is the first part of the menstrual cycle and actually overlaps with your period at first.
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What Happens: Your brain releases FSH (follicular stimulated hormones) and LH (luteinizing hormones).
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This signals your ovaries to start preparing an egg for release.
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Your estrogen levels start to rise.
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The lining of your uterus begins to thicken.
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How You Might Feel: You might feel a bit more energetic, have better concentration, notice that your skin is glowing. Time to get back to your favorite activities!
Ovulation Phase (Day 14)
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This is in the middle of the cycle.
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What Happens: Your brain releases high levels of LH (luteinizing hormones) that cause your ovary to release an egg (ovulation).
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The egg travels down the fallopian tube and if there is sperm it can fertilize the egg and become a pregnancy.
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How You Might Feel: You may feel more energetic, have a raise in your body temperature, and you might also notice more clear, stretchy cervical mucus. Some people feel a little pain called mittelschmerz which is caused by the egg bursting out the ovary.
Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
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This is towards the end of the cycle
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What Happens: The egg leaves behind the corpus luteum in the ovary Your progesterone levels are high.
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The lining of the uterus becomes more organized preparing for a pregnancy.
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How You Might Feel: You might experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and cravings. Give yourself grace.
Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
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This is when your period starts.
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What Happens: When there is no pregnancy, the egg dissolves. Your estrogen and progesterone levels also drop causing the lining of your uterus to sheds and come out through the vagina.
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How You Might Feel: You might have cramps, feel tired, or experience mood swings. A heat pa, warm comfy blanket and some chocolate can be your best friends!
When do periods start?
Most people get their first period between the ages of 9 and 16. It just depends on your body!
How often should you get your period?
The full menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but anywhere from 21-35 days for adults. Teens can have irregular periods the first couple years and their cycles can vary from 21 to 45 days.
How long does a period last?
Everyone’s different, so your experience might vary, but it is typically, 3-7 days. Periods more than 7 days long you should talk to a healthcare provider.
How much blood do you lose?
It might seem like a lot, but it’s usually only about 2-3 tablespoons in total or 20-80mL of blood.
What if my period is late?
Especially in the beginning, your period might not come at the same time every month. Over time, it will become more regular. A late period can also be a sign of pregnancy. Speak to your GP if you are suffering with irregular periods.
What should I use?
There are lots of options: You can try Flo Bamboo Period Pads, Flo Organic Tampons, and Reusable Period Pants. Try different products to see what works best for you.
Is it normal to feel pain?
Some people feel cramps in their lower belly or back. Some discomfort and cramps are normal. There are medications and supplements that can help. If your pain is severe, talk to a healthcare provider.
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Knowledge: Use a calendar or a period-tracking app to keep track of your cycle. This can help you anticipate when your period will start and be prepared.
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Stay Prepared: Keep a period kit in your bag with pads, tampons, or whatever you use. You never know when your period might decide to visit!
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Stay Active: Light exercise can help reduce cramps. A gentle yoga session or a walk can do wonders.
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Eat Well: Eating a balanced diet can help manage PMS symptoms. Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
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Rest Up: Make sure to get enough sleep. Your body is working hard, and it needs rest.
So there you have it babe, a breakdown of what Menstruation really is by our resident doctor Gorjus Doc: Natasha Ramsey, MD MPH FAAP. Flo is always here to make your period feel a little less messy and a lot more manageable!
