Things Women Don’t Know About Their Periods

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There is a general air of stigma associated with menstruation which might account to why we know so less about something we go through every month. But we’re not completely ignorant towards it; We’re in that grey area where we know it has something to do with ovulation but nothing more beyond that.

Here are a few things you’ll be surprised to find out about your periods     

Why do you actually bleed?

Your menstrual cycle is essentially designed for pregnancy. During ovulation, the egg that is released by the ovaries moves up the fallopian tubes in hopes of getting fertilized. At the same time, your body increases the production of progesterone which thickens the uterus lining so that the fertilized egg can implant itself. But if the sperm doesn’t exist, the fertilization doesn’t take place which will lead to dropping of progesterone levels. The lining of the uterus is shed and this is the bleeding you see during your periods. This also explains the absence of period during pregnancy.

Everything that makes your period intolerable

Other than constantly checking if you’re leaking during periods, dealing with back pain and cramps only worsen the situation. Cramps and back pain are caused due to the contraction of the uterus muscles. A pro tip to avoid cramps is to decrease your salt intake a week prior to your periods.

Irregular periods aren’t what you think

Rather than keeping a check on how often you miss your period, keep a track of the length of the menstrual cycle( the number of days between two periods). It is supposed to be 28 to 30 days but even if it greater than that it’s not a problem. If the number of days is constant every month then your period is regular. If you have 25 days cycle once and a 35 days cycle the next month, then it’s irregular.

You can bleed even when you’re not on your period

Yes, ladies. A little spotting especially in between your menstrual cycle is completely normal. This might be due to hormonal changes or due to any new birth control you might’ve started recently. If this happens now and then, you have nothing to worry about but if it happens every month, then consult with your doctor.