Menstrual periods: what is it and how to deal with it

Each month, our body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy, creating favorable conditions in the uterus for the embryo — a nutrient-rich endometrium. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, hormones signal the body to get rid of the unnecessary endometrium, which is coming out with the in menstruation. However, right after that, a new layer starts to build up — and the cycle repeats, month after month.

When do periods start and end?

Most girls experience their first period between the ages of 10 and 15, with the average age being around 12. This milestone typically occurs 2–3 years after the onset of puberty, a phase marked by physical changes such as breast development and other signs of maturity. Once periods begin, they continue monthly until menopause, which usually takes place between the ages of 45 and 55, signaling the end of a woman's reproductive years when menstruation stops permanently. It is impossible to get pregnant after the menopause.

What is menstrual cycle?

A woman's menstrual cycle is the time from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period, usually lasting about 28 days, although it can vary from 21 to 35 days.

❥ Menstrual Phase (Days 1-6)
During menstruation, the endometrium is expelled from the uterus, which is why menstrual discharge contains a lot of mucus.

❥ Follicular Phase (Days 7-13)
Under the influence of hormones, follicles begin to mature in the ovary – in fact, this process starts even during menstruation. Several follicles mature each cycle, but only one will complete the process and release an egg.

❥ Ovulation (Day 14-16)
The mature follicle ruptures, releasing the egg. Your hormone levels and mood are at their peak—this is your shining moment. Unfortunately, this phase lasts only 3-4 days.

❥ Luteal Phase (Days 17-28)
Your body is preparing to receive a fertilized egg – the uterine lining (endometrium) thickens significantly. Around the middle of the luteal phase, if pregnancy hasn't occurred, the body reduces the production of hormones. As a result, about a week before your period, the well-known PMS appears.

Why menstrual periods can stop or become irregular?

It can happen for various reasons, including natural life stages, health conditions, and lifestyle factors. Some common reasons why periods might stop include:

❤ Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can disrupt the menstrual cycle, leading to missed periods or irregular bleeding.

❤ Stress
High levels of physical or emotional stress can affect the body's hormonal balance, potentially causing periods to stop temporarily.

❤ Extreme weight loss or gain
Rapid weight loss, obesity, or being underweight (especially due to eating disorders like anorexia) can interfere with menstruation. Fat tissue plays a role in hormone regulation.

❤ Intensive exercise
Athletes or people who engage in intense physical training may stop menstruating, a condition known as amenorrhea. This is often due to low body fat and changes in hormonal balance.

❤ Contraceptives
Some birth control methods, especially hormonal ones like the pill, IUDs, or injections, can stop periods or make them much lighter.

❤ Chronic illness or medical conditions
Certain long-term illnesses or conditions like diabetes, celiac disease, or conditions affecting the pituitary gland can affect menstrual cycles.

❤ Medications
Certain medications, particularly those that affect hormones (like chemotherapy drugs or some antidepressants), may stop or change periods.

If a period stops for more than a few months without an obvious cause (like pregnancy or menopause), it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying issue.

How to deal with periods?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and period symptoms can affect people in different ways, typically manifesting both physically and emotionally. Common symptoms include bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, headaches, mood swings, irritability, and food cravings. During periods, additional symptoms like cramps, back pain, and heavier bleeding may occur. To alleviate these symptoms, over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective when taken in moderate amounts. It’s important to follow dosage guidelines to avoid overuse. Applying heat with a heating pad or taking warm baths can soothe cramps, while light exercise and stress management techniques like meditation may ease emotional symptoms. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet also play a role in symptom relief. If PMS or period discomfort significantly disrupts daily life, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment options.

Maintaining good hygiene during your period is essential for both comfort and health. It’s important to change menstrual products regularly to avoid odor, irritation, or infections like toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

The type of product you choose depends on personal preference and comfort:

❥ Pads are widely used, especially for people who prefer an external option. They come in various sizes and absorbencies for both light and heavy flows.

❥ Tampons, which are inserted into the vagina, are another common option. It’s recommended to change tampons every 4 to 8 hours to reduce the risk of TSS.

❥ Menstrual cups, made of silicone or rubber, are a reusable option that can be worn for up to 12 hours depending on the flow. They are eco-friendly and cost-effective over time, but require proper cleaning between uses to prevent infection.

❥ Menstrual discs and period underwear are other alternatives gaining popularity, offering flexibility and comfort.

Regardless of the product chosen, it’s crucial to maintain personal hygiene by washing the genital area with mild soap and water daily. The optimal pH level for intimate hygiene is slightly acidic, typically between 3.8 and 4.5. This pH range helps maintain a healthy vaginal environment, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, which protect against infections. Maintaining this balance is crucial because a higher pH (more alkaline) can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria or yeast, leading to infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.

When choosing intimate hygiene products, it's important to select those that are pH-balanced to this range. Avoiding harsh soaps, scented products, and douching is recommended, as they can disrupt the natural pH and cause irritation or infection. Warm water and mild, unscented cleansers are generally sufficient for daily care.