Menstruation, the Word Every Woman Should Know
“Period”, another word for menstruation is a natural and healthy process of normal vaginal bleeding which is experienced by every girl and woman of reproductive age. The duration of bleeding varies among individuals but it generally lasts for 2-5 days. The period starts between the ages of 11-13 years and lasts between 49 to 52 years.
May 28 is celebrated as Menstrual Hygiene Day, an annual awareness day to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management.
According to National Family Health Survey 2015-2016, It has been estimated that of the 336 million menstruating women in India about 121 million (roughly 36 percent) women are using sanitary napkins, locally or commercially produced.
Menstrual Cycle and cause of menstruation-
The menstrual cycle is one of the processes in the female body in which the body is preparing for pregnancy under the influence of hormones. The length of the menstrual cycle is approx. 28 days. However, the number of days may vary among females. The menstrual length is calculated from the first day of the period up to the first day of the next period.
There are two ovaries inside the body which holds a bunch of eggs. During the menstrual cycle, hormones like Estrogen and Progesterone help the egg to mature and make the thick lining of the uterus which helps in pregnancy. A mature egg is ready to be fertilized by sperm. If there is no fertilization one of the ovary releases an egg on the 14th days of the menstrual cycle which is called ovulation. Once the egg is released, it travels towards the uterus through the Fallopian tube. If pregnancy does not occur, the lining of the uterus breaks as a result the blood along with the tissue releases from the uterus and the process of “Period” starts.
Most female experience minor symptoms during periods
- Abdominal Cramps
- Joint Pain
- Lower back pain
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Irritability and mood swings
- Breast tender
Things to do during Periods- Feel better during periods by doing the following things
- Drink water and stay hydrated
- Adding green leafy vegetables to the meal
- Eating fruits
- Eating Chocolates
- Using hitting pads
- Easy exercise with lighter activities
Menstruation is a natural process related to health. Any abnormalities in the menstrual cycle can cause heavy, irregular, and prolonged periods which may cause symptoms like anemia (due to excessive loss of blood), dizziness, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, etc.
If you experience any of the above symptoms related to heavy, irregular, and prolonged period, talk to your health care provider today
Let’s talk about the period. Women should not be ashamed of it. It’s a natural process. Be proud to have periods. Let’s increase awareness to enjoy and maintain healthy and hygienic menstruation.
