Title: Understanding Your Period: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help
Subtitle: How to Optimize Your Menstrual Cycle for Better Health and Well-being
Date: [Current Date]
By: [Your Name], Health Correspondent
A: How often should I be getting my period? I’ve heard it’s every 28 days, but my cycle is sometimes longer or shorter. How do I know if my periods are “normal?”
A recent study has revealed that the definition of a “normal” period can vary greatly from person to person. The average Dutch woman may experience around 450 periods in her lifetime, while women in populations with more pregnancies, such as the Dogon people in Mali, may experience only around 100 periods throughout their lives. Experts believe this increase in total lifetime periods in developed economies is due to a decrease in time spent in pregnancy or breastfeeding, as well as an earlier onset of menarche.
But what does it mean for your period to be considered “normal?” According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the following parameters are often used by clinicians:
1. Normal periods occur between every 24 to 38 days.
2. Bleeding doesn’t last longer than eight days.
3. They occur with some predictability, with a variation of no more than nine days (for people aged 26-41, it should be no more than seven days).
4. The amount of blood loss doesn’t seem too heavy (or too light) to you.
Determining what amount of blood loss is considered “too heavy” can be subjective. If you find yourself changing your pad or tampon every 1-2 hours, frequently changing your pad overnight, passing large clots (larger than 1 inch), or being diagnosed with anemia by your doctor, it may be an indication of excessive bleeding.
However, even after considering these parameters, what’s considered “normal” ultimately depends on you. “It’s more about how we can optimize periods for people,” said Alison Edelman, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oregon Health & Science University. “If something’s not working for you, even if your period is ‘normal,’ you need to be talking to your provider about it.”
In addition to understanding what’s normal for your period, it’s crucial to know how to manage period cramps. One adjustment to consider is the timing of your medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, should ideally be taken a day or two before cramping begins to prevent the increase in prostaglandin levels that cause painful uterine contractions.
However, NSAIDs may not work for everyone. Consult your physician to explore other options for managing painful cramps and to investigate any underlying causes.
Furthermore, fluctuations in your period can sometimes occur. While occasional irregular periods may not be a major concern, it’s essential to keep track of them, as they can be a sign of certain health conditions. Consider using a period-tracking app or calendar to monitor any changes.
Events such as stress, extreme exercise, changes in weight, disordered eating, acute illnesses, and hormonal changes like pregnancy, breastfeeding, puberty, and menopause can all affect the regularity of your menstrual cycle. It’s worth noting that recent studies have shown a temporary increase in cycle length and a slightly higher risk of heavier periods associated with COVID-19 vaccination.
Alison Edelman emphasizes the importance of not normalizing suffering during menstruation. “If your symptoms are keeping you from doing—or enjoying—your daily activities, don’t put off talking to your physician,” she advises. Seeking help and understanding your body’s unique needs can lead to better overall health and well-being.
As research continues to shed light on the complexities of the menstrual cycle, it is crucial for individuals to advocate for their own menstrual health and engage in open conversations with healthcare providers to optimize their periods for enhanced quality of life.