Menstrual Educating

Menstruation occurs due to hormonal changes in the body. Hormones act as chemical messengers. The ovaries produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which lead to the thickening of the uterine lining. This thickened lining is prepared for a fertilized egg to attach and begin developing. If there is no fertilized egg, then menstruation begins!

Continue Reading, It Gets More Intriguing

During the initial years after a girl begins menstruating, her periods might not occur regularly. This is normal initially. Over time, they should become more consistent and easier to track or predict.

Typically, periods last for five days, although the duration can vary, being shorter or longer. Generally, a period occurs once a month, but since some months have five weeks, it's possible for a period to happen twice in one month. Some women experience a period every six weeks. Each of our periods is unique and individually tailored, making them exceptionally special.

Besides the start of our periods, we experience a pre-heating signal known as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Yes, before a period begins, both emotional and physical symptoms may appear. PMS can manifest as subtle reactions, while other reactions may be more pronounced. Symptoms to watch for include moodiness, sadness, anxiety, bloating, and acne. GREAT, right? Women and girls are complex and interesting; we are awesome! By preparing in advance because we know it's coming, we can manage it effectively.

SIDE NOTE: Are men aware that we have about 10-14 days each month before our bodies start bloating and bleeding, all in the potential effort to bring life into this world? (Hand her a bullhorn and a soapbox.)

Alright, do we understand menstruation? Can you explain it to someone unfamiliar with the topic? It has been simplified and clarified. Share your thoughts below. Before we finish, let's talk about when it's necessary to consult a doctor.

Contact Your Doctor If Your Daughter:

1. is 15 years old and hasn't started her period yet

2. developed breasts over three years ago and still hasn't started her period

3. is more than two years past her first period, and her cycles aren't regular, especially if she misses three or more consecutive periods

4. experiences severe cramps that aren't alleviated by over-the-counter medication

5. experiences heavy bleeding, soaking through a pad or tampon in less than two hours

6. has severe PMS that interferes with her daily activities

Stay Active. Stay Prepared. Stay Encouraged. Embrace the privilege of experiencing your period, face it directly, and treat your body and mind with care.