Menstrual cycle phases are an important part of your life. Find out what’s going on at each stage of your cycle so you know what to expect.
What is the menstrual cycle?
Your menstrual cycle occurs each month when your reproductive system goes through numerous hormone-driven changes. During each cycle, an egg develops and is released from the ovaries. The lining of the uterus builds up to support a possible conception. If a pregnancy doesn’t occur, the uterine lining sheds during a menstrual period, and then the cycle starts again.
There are four parts, or phases, that repeat during each cycle, which unfolds over 21 to 35 days. Here’s what you need to know about each one, and the menstrual cycle problems that can accompany them.
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Common menstrual cycle problems
Irregular periods
If your cycle changes from month to month by more than 20 days, if your regular periods go awry, or if your cycle is shorter than 24 days or longer than 38 days you should call a doctor.
Heavy periods
Heavy bleeding makes periods more painful and more likely to disrupt your day-to-day activities. However, they are also a sign that your body is producing and releasing a lot of life-giving blood.
You should speak to your doctor if:
- Your period goes on for longer than eight days
- You bleed enough to use one or more pads or tampons every hour or two
- You feel dizzy, lightheaded, weak, or tired, or show other signs of anaemia
Missed periods
If you have missed three periods in a row, or have not started menstruating by age 15, you may have a condition called amenorrhoea. You should see a doctor if your breasts have not started developing by age 13 or if your period has not begun three years after breast growth.
Possible causes of a missed period are:
- Pregnancy
- Your body adapting to the new routine of menstruation, in the first six months
- Eating disorders or extreme weight loss or gain
- Stress
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), due to cysts on your ovaries
- Extreme exercise
If you are concerned, make an appointment to see your doctor.
Abnormal bleeding
You should see your doctor if:
- You spot or bleed outside of your menstrual cycle
- Your period lasts longer or is heavier than usual
- You experience bleeding after the menopause
Your doctor will begin to diagnose you by looking at the most common likely cause for your age group.
Migraines
These painful headaches can be caused by your period, possibly due to hormonal changes.