HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR PERIOD IS ACTUALLY NORMAL
Our cycles can vary drastically from one woman to another, but it is important to know when these variations are abnormal. The post breaks down 5 key factors of your menstrual cycle to help you determine if your period is normal or if something else might be going on. If you think your cycle may be out of it’s ordinary, schedule an appointment with a health care provider to see whats causing the change in your cycle.
LENGTH OF YOUR CYCLE
A normal cycle is anywhere from 21 to 35 days. Any more or less is considered abnormal. The average cycle is 28 days, and this is typically the length of cycles manufactured by the birth control pill. Your cycle should be generally the same number of days month to month – for example you may always be 30 days, so that is your normal. Variations can occur due to numerous reason, including stress.
LENGTH OF YOUR PERIOD
The normal number of days for your period is 2-8. Typically the number of days of flow will be shorter while on the birth control pill. Any more or less is considered outside the normal range.
AMOUNT OF FLOW
How much flow do you have each cycle? The is a difficult question for most women to answer. The average amount of menstrual bleeding you should have during one period is 30-35mL. Over 80mL of bleeding is considered too much and is labeled “menorrhagia”. Spotting between period is also abnormal and is known as “metrorrhagia”.
Use this chart to help determine your total flow. You can also use a menstrual cup, such as the Diva Cup, which has measurements on the side to make your record keeping easier.
COLOUR OF FLOW
The colour varies from woman to woman, but the typical pattern is bright red blood at the start followed by darker (even brown) blood at the end of the period. The blood becomes darker due to oxidation. The longer the blood stays in the uterus the more oxygen it is exposed to, which is why the darker blood is expelled at the end of your period.
PERIOD PAIN
Pain is not normal. Many women suffer at least mild pain, others have to take time off work or school due to the immense pain they experience. Just because this is common, does not mean it is normal.
You should always inform your health care provider of any pain or abnormalities you are experiencing to ensure the root cause is found. It is important to know your options, especially when it comes to your reproductive health. If you want to start taking control of your body check out this post on cycle tracking.
Feel free to contact me here and we can chat more about working together to optimize your health and regulate your cycle naturally.
Resources:
Reed, BG. (2015 May 22). The Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279054/
Wyatt, KM. (2001 July). Determination of total menstrual blood loss. http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(01)01847-7/fulltext
