We’ve compiled some of the top 10 questions asked about periods and provided some answers. Enjoy! If you have any further questions, feel free to comment them below and we can feature them in future posts.
1. What is a period?
It’s the shedding of the endometrium, aka the lining of the uterus (womb). This results in bleeding from your vagina.
2. Why do they occur?
A period, is essentially when female bodies release tissue, from the uterus*, they no longer need. Why? “Every month or so, the uterus lining gets thicker to prepare for a fertilized egg if the woman becomes pregnant. If the egg doesn’t get fertilized, that lining is released from the body as blood through the vagina. This monthly process is called menstruation or a period.”
3. When do they occur?
Menstrual cycles can vary from each person but the average time period is 28 days. However it’s normal for them to be shorter or longer than this time, for instance from 21-40 days for regular periods. They can come at any point in the day, so watch out.
(Expect around 13 periods a year, if your cycles are consistently 28 days)
4. How frequently do they occur?
When you’re period starts for the first time, for the first couple of years, it could be irregular. So you could miss your period for 2 months or have 2 periods that are closer together. Most people have at least one period per month.
5. Will they ever stop?
Thankfully, yes. You’ll have to wait until you’re about 50 though, then you’ll have to make way for menopause.
6. How do I handle a period?
Handle them like a BOSS. Some of our favourite tips are: use a hot water bottle to rest on your stomach as this helps with cramps, put a cushion between your legs, take paracetamol and use a suitable pad to handle your blood flow – this will prevent any awkward stains on your clothes(everyone’s periods are not the same!). We’ll soon be doing a post/feature on our site of our full list of top tips so keep your eyes peeled!
7. Are they meant to be the same for everyone who experiences them?
Absolutely not. You can discuss with family and friends about their experiences on their period but it may not actually apply to you as everyone has different periods. Your cycle may be inconsistent but your friends may not. Don’t forget, periods are a natural process so there is no need to compare with others’ experiences.
8. Do you they hurt?
For many of us, yes. Yes they do. Medicine can always help ease the pain but if you are finding the pain unbearable even after taking medication, do visit a doctor/GP.
9. Is it better to use a tampon or a pad?
This is ultimately down to your personal preference. You can always get the opinion of others but it’s better to try both and see which one you feel most comfortable to use. Did you know that, an alternative to both pads and tampons has been created? They are are called menstrual cups and are reusable. This is just another method for you to try and see if it suits you.
10. Is it normal to feel full on your period?
Many people feel bloated during their period, this is just because your body is retaining water. To help reduce this feeling, it has been advised to cut back on the salt in your diet and avoid caffeine.
*uterus – where a fetus (baby is developed)
References (want to find out more detailed info? Check the links below):
youneedtom.wordpress.com 