What is Menstrual Flow?
Menstrual flow, also known as menstruation or a period, is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the
uterus through the vagina. It is part of the menstrual cycle, which prepares a woman's body for potential pregnancy. Menstruation typically starts during puberty, known as
menarche, and continues until menopause.
What is a Normal Menstrual Cycle?
A normal
menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 35 days in adults and from 21 to 45 days in young teens. The menstrual flow itself usually lasts between 3 to 7 days. The amount of blood lost during a period is generally between 30 to 80 milliliters.
What Causes Menstrual Flow?
Menstrual flow occurs due to the cyclical hormonal changes in a woman’s body. The hormones
estrogen and
progesterone play key roles in regulating the menstrual cycle. In the first half of the cycle, estrogen helps to thicken the uterine lining. After ovulation, if the egg is not fertilized, progesterone levels fall, causing the thickened lining to shed, resulting in menstrual flow.
What is Abnormal Menstrual Flow?
Abnormal menstrual flow can include heavy bleeding, light bleeding, or irregular periods. Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) involves losing more than 80 milliliters of blood per cycle or periods lasting longer than 7 days. Light menstrual bleeding (hypomenorrhea) is when the flow is abnormally light. Irregular periods can be due to various factors including stress, hormonal imbalances, and underlying health conditions.
What are Common Symptoms Associated with Menstrual Flow?
Common symptoms during menstruation include
cramps (dysmenorrhea), bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. Some women may also experience headaches, back pain, and breast tenderness. If symptoms are severe and affect daily life, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Periods that occur more frequently than every 21 days or less frequently than every 35 days
Heavy bleeding that requires changing sanitary products every hour
Periods lasting longer than 7 days
Severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medications
Bleeding between periods or after menopause
Early diagnosis and treatment of menstrual disorders can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
