Periods
Annie Dong
Getting your first period may seem like a rite of passage into womanhood for some. For others, it can be a source of humiliation, a dark stain on their childhood. I’m here to tell you; there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Having your period (menstruation) every month indicates your body’s strength, preparing you to create and nurture another human being in the future.
Menstruation refers to the monthly vaginal bleeding women experience after their first period. For most girls, this usually starts during puberty, around the ages of 11-14. Periods will occur monthly until menopause, when the ovaries stop producing hormones, halting the occurrence of periods. Usually, a period lasts between 4-5 days; the amount of blood flow varies from person to person. During a menstrual cycle, hormones cause eggs (located in the ovaries) to mature, preparing them to be released into the uterus. The uterus lining also thickens; if the egg is fertilized and implanted, the lining provides nutrients for the egg to grow. When the egg is released (ovulation), it goes through the fallopian tubes into the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized, your body doesn’t need the thick lining of the uterus. The lining, composed of blood, nutrients, and tissue, is broken down and leaves the body through the vagina. If the egg is fertilized and successfully implanted in the uterus, initiating a pregnancy, the lining stays in your uterus, and your period stops. It won’t come back until the pregnancy has terminated.
It’s easy to forget your period when it comes and goes as part of your monthly routine. However, keeping track of it is crucial; changes in your menstrual cycle can indicate health issues. An irregular period can be a sign of hormone, thyroid and liver problems, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, etc. (All About Women). Extreme weight gain/loss, intensive exercise, and stress can disrupt a regular menstrual cycle. Keeping track of your periods doesn’t have to be complicated, and it can be as simple as jotting them down on a calendar or journal. Digital apps, such as Eve, Flo, Clue (etc.), can help you keep more detailed records, such as how light/heavy your flow was on a particular day and accompanying symptoms. Some women experience physical or emotional changes because of hormonal changes during their period, also known as PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Symptoms can range from minor headaches to extreme mood swings. For some women, these symptoms can seriously disrupt their everyday routines, which often don’t disappear until halfway through a menstruation cycle.
Many products are available on the market to help collect the blood released during a period. Period pads are strips of cotton attached directly to the underwear to absorb blood. One side of the pad is sticky to hold it in place, and the other is absorbent, soaking up the blood. Many girls start by using pads because it’s easy to use. There are many different sizes, styles, and absorbencies available, so having multiple sizes on hand can be helpful as your blood flow changes throughout the period. Tampons are also another option, especially for swimmers and athletes. A tampon is a small tube inserted directly into the vagina, either with your fingers or an applicator, to absorb period blood. A string on the other end of the tampon makes pulling it out easier when it needs to be changed. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes depending on how light or heavy your period is. It is crucial to remember to change your tampon every 4-6 hours. Leaving it inside your body for too long can cause harmful bacteria to grow, potentially leading to toxic shock syndrome. For those looking for a more environmentally friendly option, menstrual cups are 2-inch silicone cups inserted into the vagina to collect rather than absorb blood. When the cup is full, the user empties the blood and washes the cup for reuse.
Your menstrual cycle is a normal, biological process, and it shouldn’t have to be seen as a burden in your life. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor, friends, school nurse, or other trusted individuals about questions regarding your period. Staying informed and embracing your period allows you to better understand and make the best decisions for your body.
Works Cited
https://medlineplus.gov/menstruation.html
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation
https://www.allaboutwomenmd.com/knowledge-center/tracking-your-period.html
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