What is menstruation?

Menstruation (a period) is when the lining of the uterus sheds and blood and tissue exit through the vagina. Someone with a vagina, uterus, and ovaries is likely to have their first period about 2-3 years after starting breast growth. The average age of the first period is about 12 years. After someone’s first period, they will likely experience irregular bleeding for the first 1-2 years. Irregular bleeding can mean missing a month or two, random spotting, or very light periods.

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How long should a period last?

A normal period lasts between 3-7 days. If periods last longer than 8 days, it is important to talk to a doctor. If someone is on a hormonal method of birth control, they may have shorter periods, no periods, or irregular bleeding. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about the length of your period.

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How often should a period occur?

For someone not on a hormonal contraceptive method, a normal cycle for each period is every 21-35 days. If someone goes 45 days without a period, and it has been at least 1 year since their first period, they should check with a healthcare provider. Some of the most common reasons for missing a period are young age, hormonal changes from stress or unmet energy needs, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or pregnancy. It’s also good to know that hormonal birth control methods can be used to safely stop menstrual periods and that amenorrhea (no bleeding) when using these medications is OK.

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What are the different kinds of menstrual products and where can I find them?

Menstrual products are a lot like clothes; many types work for different occasions, bodies, and personal preferences. Pads and liners can be worn in underwear and tampons can be inserted into the vagina. There are also reusable options such as cloth pads, period underwear, menstrual cups, and menstrual discs. Menstrual products can be found at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and online. Many schools and public places provide menstrual products for free. For amenstruator’s first period, a good system is multiple kinds of products, multiple sizes. For example, you could try night pads, day pads, and a multipack of tampons (light, regular, super).

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What are common problems with menstruation?

Heavy bleeding, prolonged bleeding, irregular or skipped periods, and painful periods are commonly experienced by menstruators, but there are many things that a doctor can do to help or even stop these problems. If someone is experiencing these issues, or any other concerns about their period, they should talk to a healthcare provider. Struggling with menstrual health issues can feel isolating, so it is important to check in with menstruators often.

How is menstruation related to mental health?

Menstruation can make dealing with mental health issues more difficult. Hormone changes during menstruation can affect mood and lower energy levels. Some people experience more stress or anxiety from period pain, the cost of menstrual products, or the stigma around menstruation. If someone is having strong mood changes during their period or has any other mental health concerns, it is a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider. People who have more emotional and physical issues the week before getting their period that stop when their period begins, may have Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).