Normal Menstruation
During a normal menstrual cycle, the lining of a woman's uterus sheds. This cycle is part of a woman's reproductive system and prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It is also called a period, menses or cycle.
What is menstruation?
Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the lining of a woman’s uterus (more commonly known as the womb). Menstruation is also known by the terms menses, menstrual period, cycle or period. The menstrual blood—which is partly blood and partly tissue from the inside of the uterus—flows from the uterus through the cervix and out of the body through the vagina.
What is a normal menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle is a term used to describe the sequence of events that occur within a woman’s body as it prepares for the possibility of pregnancy each month. A menstrual cycle is considered to begin on the first day of a period. The average cycle is 28 days long; however, a cycle can range in length from 21 days to about 35 days.
At what age does menstruation typically begin?
Girls start menstruating at the average age of 12. However, girls can begin menstruating as early as 8 years of age or as late as 16 years of age. Women stop menstruating at menopause, which occurs at about the age of 51. At menopause, a woman stops producing eggs (stops ovulating). Menopause is defined as one year without periods, and after this time a woman can no longer become pregnant.
What are some of the symptoms of a normal menstruation?
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Moodiness
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Trouble sleeping
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Food cravings
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Cramps in the lower abdomen and back
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Bloating
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Tenderness in the breasts
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Acne
What symptoms may indicate a need to contact my doctor about my period?
Contact your doctor or healthcare provider if:
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You have not started menstruating by the age of 16
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Your period stops suddenly
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You are bleeding for more days than usual
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You are bleeding more heavily than usual
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You have severe pain during your period
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You have bleeding between periods
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You suddenly feel sick after using tampons
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You think you might be pregnant—for example, you have had sex and your period is at least five days late
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Your period has not returned within three months after stopping birth control pills and you know you are not pregnant
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You have any questions or concerns about your period or possible pregnancy