Riding the Crimson Wave with Ease
Your Guide to a Happy, Healthy Period!
When it comes to menstrual health, understanding what constitutes a "normal" period can empower us to recognize when something might be amiss. While everyone's body is unique, there are common characteristics of a healthy menstrual cycle that can serve as a guide.
Duration and Frequency
A typical menstrual cycle lasts from 21 to 35 days, starting on the first day of your period and ending when the next period begins. It's entirely normal for this to vary slightly from month to month. The menstruation period itself usually lasts between 2 to 7 days. If your cycles fall consistently outside these ranges, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
Flow
The amount of menstrual blood can vary throughout your period and from one cycle to the next. On average, a person loses between 30 to 40 milliliters of menstrual fluid over the course of their period, though anywhere from 20 to 80 milliliters is considered normal. You might experience heavy flow days typically at the beginning of your period, which then lightens. If you find yourself needing to change your tampon, pad, or menstrual cup more frequently than every two hours on several days of your period, it could be classified as a heavy menstrual bleed (menorrhagia) and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Color and Consistency
The color and consistency of menstrual blood can vary and still be considered healthy. It might start as bright red and can darken to a brown or even blackish hue toward the end of your period. This variation is normal and is usually just an indicator of the blood's age and oxygen exposure. Small clots are also common, especially on days with a heavier flow, but large clots (larger than a quarter) could warrant a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Symptoms
It's common to experience some symptoms around your period, such as mild cramping, bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness due to hormonal fluctuations. These symptoms should not significantly interfere with your daily life. Severe pain, excessive fatigue, or other symptoms that impact your quality of life can be signs of underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
What's Next?
Understanding your body's rhythms and what is normal for you is crucial. Tracking your cycle can help you become familiar with your patterns and recognize when something might be off. And remember, when in doubt, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action. Your period is a vital sign, just like your pulse or blood pressure, and it deserves attention and care.
Curious about how you can support your period through every phase? Join our transformative course, In Full Bloom, designed exclusively for menstruaters, like you, who are ready to revolutionize their relationship with their period. Say goodbye to discomfort and confusion, and hello to a life of harmony with your body's natural rhythms. Let's embark on this journey of self-care and empowerment together.
Your best period is yet to come!
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
