Menstrual Health 101 - Understanding Your Cycle and When to Seek Help
- Gwyneth De Ramos
- Oct 26
- 3 min read
For those who menstruate, menstrual health plays a large factor in their overall health and mental well being. Menstrual health impacts the daily lives of about 26% of the global population. By taking the time to understand the not-so-complex world of the menstrual cycle, individuals can identify what is normal or abnormal about their periods, leading to a healthier life.
What is a menstrual cycle?
A basic menstrual cycle overview is divided into four phases: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase. The menstruation phase, more popularly known as the period, is the part of your cycle when the uterus sheds its lining (endometrium) and allows the blood to exit the body through the vagina. This stage lasts about 4-7 days, depending on the person. The follicular phase begins on the first day of your menstruation phase, and lasts about 13-14 days. So, there’s a bit of an overlap there. In this phase, your hormone level begins to change and that causes the lining of your uterus to thicken and follicles begin to grow on the surface of the ovaries. Typically, only one follicle will grow and mature into an egg. The ovulation phase is when the mature egg is released from the ovary. This phase occurs once a month, and usually two weeks before the next period begins. At this phase, an individual is more likely to become pregnant, so it's best to stay cautious around this time! Lastly, the luteal phase is when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to your uterus. At this phase, the endometrium continues to thicken to prepare for a possible pregnancy. In the case that a sperm meets the egg, the individual falls pregnant, and won’t have a period until after the pregnancy.
Common Menstrual Disorders
There are many menstrual disorders that affect the lives of thousands. Some of these disorders can affect not only the physical aspect of an individual's life, but also the mental aspect.
Dysmenorrhea is a severe and frequent cramping during menstruation. Pain will occur in the lower abdomen, but it can spread to the lower back and thighs. Dysmenorrhea is divided into two sectors: primary and secondary. The primary one is diagnosed when the cramps occur from contractions in the uterus and become more severe during heavy bleeding. The secondary one is diagnosed when the cramping is associated with another menstrual disorder like endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
Menorrhagia is when the uterus excretes an excessive amount of menstrual blood. Menstrual flow will last longer and is much heavier than the usual. The flow is able to soak through more than 5 sanitary products per day, and often requires more frequent changing.
Amenorrhea is the absence of a menstrual cycle. Like Dysmenorrhea, it is divided into two sectors: primary and secondary. Primary Amenorrhea refers to when a girl does not start to menstruate by the age of 16. Secondary Amenorrhea is when in a girl who previously had a normal menstrual cycle it suddenly stops for at least 3 months.
Recognizing Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
If you recognize any of the following symptoms, it is best to book an appointment with your OB/ GYN or family doctor.
Dysmenorrhea: Cramping in the lower abdomen, pain in the lower abdomen, low back pain, pain radiating down the legs, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Menorrhagia: Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row, needing double sanitary protection to control your menstrual flow, getting up at night to change sanitary pads or tampons, and bleeding for more than a week.
Amenorrhea: Excess body hair (hirsutism), hair loss, headache, lack of breast development, milky discharge from the breasts, and vision changes.
Managing Menstrual Health
Managing your menstrual health is important. It can help evaluate any pain, discomfort, or stress that comes with your menstrual cycle. The good thing about managing your menstrual health is that it comes down to you and how you know your body. Whatever works for you may not work for others, and that's okay! As long as you know how to manage it, that's what really matters. Studies have shown that getting regular exercise, changing your eating habits, and reducing your cortisol levels may help with menstrual symptoms, such as cramping and fatigue. It is also best to contact your family doctor or OB/GYN if you are eligible to take an over-the-counter medication to help relieve any symptoms of menstruation. Remember, taking charge of your menstrual health is a powerful step towards overall well-being, don’t hesitate to seek the support and answers you deserve.
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