Period Facts Without the Awkward Silence
Let’s talk periods — no whispers, no shame. Menstruation is one of the most natural things your body can do, yet for years, it’s been wrapped in mystery and discomfort. But here’s the truth: your period is your body’s monthly rhythm, a sign that your reproductive system is healthy and working the way it’s meant to.
It can be messy, uncomfortable, sometimes painful — but also powerful because it means your body knows how to renew itself, month after month.
What Actually Happens
Every month, your uterus (that soft, pear-shaped organ in your lower belly) prepares for a possible pregnancy. The lining thickens with tissue and blood, waiting to nurture a fertilised egg.
If no egg is fertilised, the lining isn’t needed, so your body releases it through the vagina. That release is your period.
This cycle from one period to the next usually lasts about 21 to 35 days, depending on the person. The bleeding part lasts 3 to 7 days.
It’s not “dirty” blood. It’s your body cleaning house — naturally, rhythmically, beautifully.
The Menstrual Cycle Stages
- Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)
You’re bleeding. Cramps may hit, moods may swing, and you may feel tired — it’s okay to rest.
- Follicular Phase (Days 1–13)
Your ovaries start preparing an egg for release. Estrogen levels rise, energy levels often increase, and you might feel more focused or creative.
- Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)
The egg is released from the ovary. Some people notice more energy, a boost in confidence, or even a slight increase in libido.
- Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
If the egg isn’t fertilised, hormone levels drop — leading to PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome). You might feel bloated, cranky, emotional, or crave sweets. Totally normal.
What to Expect
- Blood colour can range from bright red to dark brown — both are normal.
- Flow can be light or heavy, and it might change each month.
- Mild cramps, back pain, or breast tenderness can happen.
- Periods can be irregular for the first few years after they start — your body’s finding its rhythm.
Everyone’s experience is different. Some barely feel it; others have intense cramps. All are valid.
How to Manage Your Period
You have options — find what works best for you:
- Pads: absorb blood from outside your body. Easy to use and great for beginners.
- Tampons: inserted inside the vagina to soak up blood. Change every 4–6 hours.
- Menstrual Cups: flexible silicone cups that collect blood. Reusable and eco-friendly.
- Period Underwear: absorbent underwear that replaces pads or tampons. Comfortable and subtle.
Change your pad or tampon regularly — every 4–6 hours — to prevent odour or infections. Always wash your hands before and after.
Caring for Yourself During Your Period
- Rest when you need to.
- Stay hydrated — water helps reduce bloating and cramps.
- Use a hot water bottle or heating pad on your lower belly.
- Eat iron-rich foods (like spinach, beans, eggs) to replace what you lose.
- Stretch, walk, or do gentle movement — it helps your body flow better.
- Track your cycle using a calendar or app — it helps you understand your body’s pattern.
When to See a Health Worker
- Extremely painful cramps that stop you from doing daily activities.
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days or very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour).
- Periods that suddenly stop for months (and you’re not pregnant).
- Irregular cycles after several years of menstruation.
- Unusual discharge or a foul odour.
The Bigger Picture
Your period isn’t something to hide — it’s a rhythm that connects you to your body’s natural wisdom. For generations, people were taught to treat menstruation as a burden. But it’s not. It’s your body communicating, cycling, evolving.
Every drop, every cramp, every mood swing is a conversation between your hormones and your strength. Listen to it. Honor it. Own it.
Because having a period doesn’t make you weak — it makes you human.
