As a sexual and reproductive health educator for Planned Parenthood, we cover the topic of menstruation or periods. From our classes, we tend to get very similar questions regarding periods – meaning people are very curious about what periods are, what causes them, or how to take care of themselves during a period. Below are three things for everyone to know about menstruation!
1. What is menstruation?
To start off, let’s clarify what menstruation or a period is. Menstruation is the first phase of the menstrual cycle during which blood and tissue exit the body through the vagina. A period happens when there is no fertilized egg successfully implanted onto the endometrium (uterine wall). Thus, the soft tissue that lines the uterus is not needed and exits the body–also known as a person’s period.
2. No need to suffer through the pain
During a period, sometimes people might experience cramps. Cramping is caused by the uterine muscles working to expel and control the bleeding from the uterus. Some people experience quite intense menstrual pain caused by these cramps and others might not feel any pain at all. Although feeling some cramping during a period can be normal, if someone experiences intense pain that negatively impacts their daily life, they should not ignore and suffer through that pain. People should feel empowered to talk with their doctor about what could be causing that pain. Endometriosis or uterine fibroids can be some examples of the root cause of high menstrual pain. The only way to know for sure is for people to discuss their symptoms with their medical provider.
A few days before or during a person’s period, their body is working hard. They might feel fatigued, be hungrier than usual, have trouble concentrating, have mood swings, or other symptoms due to pre-menstrual syndrome, also known as PMS. It’s important for people to take care of themselves during their period. Being active and eating nutritious food can help with symptoms – such as taking a walk and eating berries. It is also okay for people to take it easy on the days they experience PMS. If someone is having extreme pre-menstrual syndrome symptoms, they should connect with their medical provider.
3. All kinds of menstrual products!
During a period, people can use menstrual products to hold the menstrual blood exiting the body. Some of the commonly available products are single-use tampons or pads. These can be bought at stores and are usually widely available in the United States. However, there are a wide variety of products that a person can use during their period–including reusable products!
A product made from cotton or rayon; or a blend of the two, that is inserted into the vagina (with or without an applicator) and absorbs the menstrual fluid. Tampons have a string at the end that are left outside the vagina for removal. These are single use and need to be changed every 4 to 8 hours.
Pads are made from different materials and are placed in the underwear. They absorb the menstrual flow as it exits the body. Single-use menstrual pads need to be changed according to package instructions, typically every 4-8 hours. Reusable menstrual pads are made from fabric that can be washed and reused. These still need to be changed every few hours.
These are made from soft plastic, rubber, or silicone and shaped like a bowl or bell. These are inserted into the vagina, and they collect the menstrual fluid. Most menstrual cups are reusable–meaning they can be washed and reused. There are also single-use menstrual cups. Menstrual cups should be emptied, washed, and reinserted at least 2 times a day.
If someone has an IUD, they should not use a menstrual cup as the suction can cause the IUD to move out of place.
A disc-shaped product that is inserted into the vagina and collects the menstrual fluid. Some menstrual discs are reusable, and some are single use. A menstrual disc can be placed in the body for up to 12 hours.
Underwear with extra layers of fabric that absorb the menstrual fluid. They are washable, thus reusable and there are different underwear for different menstrual flows. Typically, these are worn for a full day but might need to be changed more often depending on a person’s flow.
A person can use the menstrual product that best fits their lifestyle and needs. Regardless of which menstrual product a person uses, it is important they follow the instructions of their product.
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