Periods are the unofficial transition into womanhood. Every girl remembers when she got her first period and the journey afterward. Because the menstrual cycle is a physiological process, it is a normal process linked to the reproduction functions of women.
The menstrual cycle is typically 28 days long and includes activities such as the release of an egg or ova by the ovary. The ova that is released is then picked up by the uterine tube awaiting fertilization by a sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it is automatically destroyed. Simultaneously with the release of the egg, the walls of the uterus which is the womb begin thickening in preparation for the zygote that might be formed after fertilization.
Menstruation is the shedding of the walls of the uterus when fertilization does not occur. The egg that was released is also she added during menstruation. Periods do not get enough attention and could lead to major discomfort and anxiety if basic menstruation information is not known. This article covers basic information on periods.
Heavy and light flows are normal
Physiological processes follow a basic pattern although they may fall across a range. Periods fall between the range of 3 to 7 days and could be light or heavy. Except other symptoms such as intense pain are experienced, light and heavy periods are equally normal as well as short and longer periods. Menorrhagia which is heavy periods with intense pain is commonly diagnosed in women.
Mood swings are normal
The menstrual cycle and the entire female reproductive system are controlled by certain hormones. These hormones include estrogen and progesterone. The cyclical nature of periods also means that at certain times, specific hormones are more active than others.
In the fourth week of the menstrual cycle, for example, progesterone is more active. The increased activity of progesterone has been linked to certain psychological changes which are manifested as the mood swings.
The increased secretion of progesterone causes more intuitive activities influencing one to be more introspective. Naturally, women tend to prefer more introspective activities in the fourth week of their menstrual cycle. An acknowledgment of this fact is important in instituting measures to manage the changes.
The first day is day 1 of the menstrual cycle
Periods are great markers for monitoring one’s menstrual cycle especially for persons implementing natural birth control methods. For a 28-day cycle, ovulation is day 14. Fertilization is most likely to occur within 48 hours of ovulation.
Diet can help with cramps
Cramps are the most unpleasant aspect of periods: they can be completely disabling. Research has established that changes in diet can reduce the intensity and frequency of cramps. Studies have shown balanced diets, especially those high in magnesium can reduce the frequency and intensity of cramps. Nutrition is also known to alleviate other bodily changes that accompany periods such as bloating.
Information on periods is necessary for the alleviation of the changes that come with it as well as birth control. This article highlighted some of the important bits of information every woman need to know about periods.
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