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The stigma and silence that can surround periods results in less awareness of menstruation. This means people are less likely to be aware of advice and support for menstruation or about the options and choices available concerning period management.
Lack of awareness can also lead to those who menstruate being unaware of what is ‘normal’. Whilst periods are and should be considered ‘normal’, each person’s ‘normal’ may be slightly different and can vary in a few different ways:
Regular or irregular cycles
Differing levels of pain
Heavier or lighter flows
Longer or shorter periods
Longer or shorter cycles
Regardless of the length of your cycle, there are four stages that your body will go through every month in order to menstruate. The length of these stages, and their symptoms, may vary depending on what is ‘normal’ for you.
The Four Menstrual Phases
Throughout your cycle, you may experience different feelings at different times.
During every monthly cycle, four stages may influence the way that you think, feel, and behave. Typically speaking, the most widely known ‘phase’ is the Menstrual Phase (your bleed), but this is both preceded and followed by other phases with their physical effects.
So, what are the four phases, and how might you be feeling?
Menstrual Phase
This is day one of your cycle and it is when you’re ‘on your period’. The Menstrual Phase can last up to seven days, and you might feel fine, but a lot of people report feeling ‘bleugh’ - tired, crampy and uncomfortable. This is because oestrogen levels are at their lowest on the first day of your period, which can lead to low energy. This is all completely normal for your period but may cause you to feel generally low.
Make sure to prioritise self-care, particularly during this phase.
As you menstruate, your uterus lining sheds and flows out of your vagina. Your period contains blood, mucus and some cells from the lining of your uterus. The average length of a period is three to seven days.
Period pads, tampons, period underwear or menstrual cups can be used to absorb your period. Pads and tampons need to be changed regularly (preferably every three to four hours) and menstrual cups should be changed every eight to twelve hours.
Follicular Phase
This phase begins at the same time as the Menstrual Phase but often lasts longer (usually around two weeks).
This is when the follicles in the ovary mature and one follicle matures into an egg (usually only one). At the same time, your uterus lining thickens again.
During this time, you can experience a rise in your body temperature.
Ovulation Phase
This is the shortest phase of the cycle, lasting two or three days. You are at your most fertile during this time and are likely to feel your best and/or notice an increased sexual drive.
Luteal Phase
This is the final phase of the cycle, and can last up to two weeks. Progesterone and oestrogen levels rise (and continue to rise, if you are pregnant) and then fall (if you are not pregnant), and this hormone fluctation can lead to changes in mood, tender breasts, bloating, skin break-outs or changes in your appetite.
Symptoms
Symptoms
A lot of the challenges and some of stigma surrounding periods is related to the symptoms that people experience.
Many symptoms are common among people who menstruate but are not always associated with coming from your period.
Click here to see some of the symptoms that you might experience during your menstrual cycle.
Some other symptoms that you might experience during your menstrual cycle are:
Nausea
Cramps
Feeling Achy
Fatigue
Dizziness
IBS Symptoms
Breast Tenderness
Anxiety
All of the symptoms listed here are commonly reported side effects of the 'average' menstrual cycle, however, if your side effects feel out of control, or if they are causing you distress, you may benefit from speaking to a healthcare professional.
What if my period doesn’t seem 'normal'?
What if my period doesn’t seem 'normal'?
Whilst we believe periods should be normalised, sometimes people’s experiences of periods do not fall within a ‘normal’ range and should be checked by a medical professional. A lack of awareness or knowledge about what counts as ‘normal’ in terms of periods and overall menstrual health can lead some people to delay seeking help. There are some serious conditions, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which are unlikely to improve without medical support.
You don't need to feel embarrassed about seeking support from your General Practitioner if you are ever concerned about your menstrual health.
Types of Period Products
Types of Period Products
Many people are only introduced to one type of menstrual product and often stick to it for life.
However, there's a wide range of options available to suit diverse preferences and needs. From period pads and tampons to menstrual cups and period pants, the choices are vast. Each product offers unique benefits, such as levels of comfort, price points, absorbency levels, sustainability, and convenience. By exploring these options, individuals can find the perfect match for their menstrual routine, empowering them to manage their periods with confidence and ease. Click here for more information.
Period Pads
Period pads are strips of padding that have a sticky side you attach to your pants to hold them in place. One side of the pad is made of an absorbent material that soaks up the blood.
Many people use pads when they first start their period because they’re easy to use.
For further information: NHS Inform
Tampons
Tampons are small tubes of cotton wool that you insert into your vagina to absorb the blood before it comes out of your body. There’s a string at one end which you pull to remove.
If you develop an unpleasant discharge and think you have forgotten to remove a tampon, speak to a doctor as soon as possible. There’s a rare risk of tampon-related toxic shock syndrome.
For further information: NHS Inform
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone, and are around 2 inches in size. You put the cup inside your vagina and the cup collects the blood rather than absorbing it.
It’s important to make sure you empty your menstrual cup based on the manufacturer’s instructions and wash your hands, and your menstrual cup, before each use. This is to reduce any risk of toxic shock syndrome.
For further information: NHS Inform
Period Pants
Periods pants are designed to be worn during your period like everyday pants. They absorb menstrual blood like other period products. They’re environmentally friendly as they can be washed and used again.
For further information: NHS Inform
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a very rare condition that’s caused when bacteria get into the body and release harmful toxins. It can happen when you use tampons or menstrual cups if they’re not changed regularly enough
This is why you should:
Wash your hands before changing your tampon or menstrual cup
Wash your menstrual cup before each use
change your tampon or menstrual cup regularly – around every 4 to 6 hours, depending on your period
Remember to change your tampon or empty your menstrual cup when you wake up if you have chosen to use the product overnight
TSS is rare, but it can be life-threatening, so it must be diagnosed and treated quickly.
Further information: NHS Inform
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