What is a Period?

What’s a period, and why do we have these things every month? It’s normal female biology! And it’s a major sign of the physical maturity of becoming a woman.

Very simply, a period is when a woman’s body releases tissue it no longer needs. This tissue comes from the uterus, which is where a baby (foetus) develops in the female body. Every month or so, the uterus lining gets thicker. This is to prepare for a fertilised egg if the woman becomes pregnant. If the egg doesn’t get fertilised, that lining is released from the body through the vagina. This is called menstruation.

Menstruation is a part of the female reproductive function. Boys have a different reproductive system from women, so they don’t get periods. But they do go through physical changes at puberty, including voice and body changes, the ability to produce sperm and the beginnings of facial, underarm and pubic hair.

Do you have any other burning questions about that time of the month? Ask in our comments — there may be another girl out there with a helpful answer!

During your period you want to feel comfortable and protected, that goes without a question. That's why Always Platinum period pads have an enhanced core with more absorbent material, as well as the dual layer top sheet with soft micro-cushions acting as effective leakage barriers. The soft wings to keep the pad in place, so you can feel confident and comfortable through the day!