Periods

A period is bleeding from the vagina that happens as part of the menstrual cycle. During the month, the body builds a lining inside the uterus (womb). If pregnancy doesn't happen, the lining is no longer needed and leaves the body as blood and tissue - this is a period.

Periods are a normal and healthy part of life.

Not everyone who has periods identifies as a girl/woman, and not all girls/women have periods.

The menstrual cycle is the monthly process the body goes through to prepare for a possible pregnancy.

• Day 1 of your cycle is the first day of bleeding
• Bleeding usually lasts 3 to 7 days, but this can vary
• A cycle usually lasts 21 to 35 days
• If pregnancy does not occur, the menstrual cycle restarts.

When periods first start, menstrual cycles are often irregular. This is normal, and it can take a few years for them to settle into a pattern.

Each month, hormones tell the ovaries to release an egg (this is called ovulation). At the same time, in preparation for potential pregnancy the lining of the uterus thickens.

• If the egg is fertilised, pregnancy can occur
• If it isn't, the uterus lining sheds and leaves the body as a period.

Hormone changes can affect how your body feels. Everyone is different.

Some people notice just before their period starts that they may experience:

• Tiredness or low energy
• Cramps or aches
• Mood changes
• Bloating or headaches
• Changes in appetite

These experiences are common - but you shouldn’t have to put up with severe pain or symptoms that stop you from going to school, work, or living your life.

‍

• Period length: Most people bleed anywhere from 3 to 11 days with the average person bleeding for 5-7 days.
• Cycle Length: A normal menstrual cycle is typically between 21 to 35 days, but can vary between individuals. Irregular cycles are common in the first few years after the first period
• Heaviness: Periods can range from light to heavy. It’s common to have heavier bleeding in the first couple of days - requiring a change of your pad or tampon 3-5 times over the day depending on absorbency.
• Pain: Mild cramps are common, especially during the first few days of menstruation, but pain that stops you going to school, sleeping, or doing normal activities is not normal and should be checked.
• PMS Symptoms: Pre-menstrual symptoms include mood changes, irritability, bloating, fatigue, breast tenderness, and food cravings.

Seek medical help if:

• Pain: 
  
  • Severe cramps that don’t improve with pain relief
  • Pain during sex (or afterwards)
  • abdominal/cramping pain at different stages of your cycle - not just around your period.
  • If during your period you get pain from your bowels (while pooing) pain while you wee.
• Heavy Bleeding: 
  
  • Soaking through a pad or tampon every 1-2 hours or passing large clots (about the size of a $2 coin or bigger). 
  • If your bleeding is so heavy that it is causing you to feel dizzy, tired or unwell.
• No Bleeding (also known as amenorrhoea): Missing periods for several months or irregular cycles.
• Bleeding after sex or between periods: This may indicate an underlying condition like fibroids or an infection.

You can use pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period underwear to collect menstrual flow. These products are available in most supermarkets, pharmacies, and health stores. Many health services, schools, and community organisations provide free menstrual products. Check with local clinics, schools, or online services for access to free products.

1. Pads (sanitary pads)
Pads are absorbent materials worn inside underwear to collect menstrual flow. They come in different sizes (light, regular, heavy, or overnight) and thicknesses to suit different flow levels. They are easy to use and widely available, and comfortable for people who don't want to insert anything into their body.

Types:

• Disposable pads: Used once and then thrown away
• Reusable pads: Made from cloth, these can be washed and reused.

2. Tampons
Tampons are small, cylindrical products made of absorbent material, inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow. They come with or without an applicator, and can be used in different absorbency levels based on your flow. Discreet and comfortable for many people, especially during physical activity like swimming. They can be worn for up to 8 hours, depending on absorbency. They can be uncomfortable for beginners or people who are not used to inserting products. There is a small risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) if left in for too long.

3. Menstrual cups
A menstrual cup is a small, flexible cup made of silicone or rubber that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. It can hold more blood than a tampon or pad, and can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them ideal for long days or overnight use. They are sustainable and eco-friendly, as they can be rused for years. They can be difficult to insert and remove, especially for begginers. They require regular cleaning and maintenance.

4. Period underwear
Period underwear is specially designed to absorb menstrual flow, similar to a pad but built into the fabric of the underwear itself. It can be worn alone or with other products like tampons or menstrual cups for extra protection. Great for light days or spotting, and available in a variety of styles and absorbency levels. Can be more expensive than other menstrual products. Not ideal for heavy flows days on its own.

Types:

• Disposable period underwear: Designed for single use
• Reusable period underwear: Made to be washed and reused.

5. Menstrual discs
A menstrual disc is similar to a menstrual cup but sits higher in the vagina, just below the cervix, to collect menstrual blood. It's a flexible, circular disc that can be worn for up to 12 hours. Comfortable for many people, especially during physical activity like exercise. They can be difficult to insert and remove, and may be less familiar or comfortable for beginners.

Types:

• Disposable menstrual discs: Designed for one time use
• Reusable menstrual discs: Can be washed and reused.

Choosing the right product:

• Flow Level: If you have a heavy flow, tampons, menstrual cups, or heavy-duty pads may work best. Lighter flow may be handled with period underwear or lighter pads.
• Comfort: Some people prefer the feeling of pads, while others feel more comfortable with tampons, menstrual cups, or discs.
• Lifestyle: Consider what works best with your daily activities. For example, menstrual cups and tampons are popular choices for swimming or exercising, while period underwear can be convenient for overnight use.

Yes. Pregnancy is possible once periods start - even before the first period.

If you are sexually active and your period is late, pregnancy is possible even if contraception is used, as no method is perfect.

No. Some types of contraception can:

• Make periods lighter or less painful
• Stop periods altogether

If periods are causing problems, talk to a nurse or doctor - you have options.