Hey there, period warriors! Let’s get real about something half the planet deals with but still gets whispered about like it’s some top-secret mission—MENSTRUATION. Yep, those 3-7 days of the month that can feel like a rollercoaster ride you didn’t sign up for. But guess what? Periods are normal, natural, and (dare we say it?) even fascinating!

What’s Happening Down There?

Your menstrual cycle isn’t just about bleeding; it’s a whole symphony of hormones working behind the scenes. Every month, your body preps for a possible pregnancy (even if you’re nowhere near ready for one). If no fertilization happens, your uterus goes, “Cool, let’s reset,” and sheds its lining—voila, your period!

A standard cycle lasts about 28 days, but anything between 21-35 days is fair game. The real trick is knowing YOUR normal. If your cycle is more unpredictable than a soap opera plot twist, it might be time to check in with a gynecologist (psst…House of Gynaecologists is always here to help!).

Period Woes: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

Let’s break it down:

✅ Cramps: Your uterus is just flexing its muscles. Warm compresses, hydration, and some movement can help.

✅ Mood Swings: Blame the hormonal party happening inside you. Self-care and good nutrition can keep the blues at bay.

✅ Flow Fluctuations: Heavy, light, or somewhere in between—it’s all unique to you. But if you’re soaking through a pad or tampon every hour, that’s a red flag (literally).

🚨 When to Worry:

• Super painful cramps that make you curl up like a prawn.
• Irregular periods (constantly skipping or coming too soon).
• Unusual discharge or bad odor (could be an infection).
• Periods that last more than 7 days.

If any of these sound familiar, get yourself checked! You don’t have to suffer in silence.

Busting Period Myths (Because We’ve Heard Them All)

❌ “You can’t exercise on your period.” Oh, you can, and sometimes, it even helps with cramps!

❌ “Period blood is dirty.” Nope. It’s just the lining of your uterus, not some toxic waste.

❌ “Tampons can get lost inside you.” Your vagina isn’t the Bermuda Triangle. A tampon cannot disappear inside you.

Period Care 101

🩸 Pick your products: Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period underwear—find what works for YOU.

🥗 Eat smart: Leafy greens, nuts, and dark chocolate (yes, chocolate!) can help replenish lost nutrients and boost your mood.

💦 Stay hydrated: Water keeps bloating and cramps in check.

🛌 Rest when you need to: It’s okay to take it easy when your body’s working overtime.

Let’s Normalize Period Talk

No more whispering “I need a pad” like it’s a classified secret. No more feeling ashamed of a completely normal bodily function. Menstruation is part of life—so let’s talk about it openly, support each other, and make sure we’re prioritizing menstrual health like the queens we are!

Got period questions? House of Gynaecologists has got your back (and your uterus). Let’s keep the conversation going!