Menstrual Cycle Education

What's Normal?

Everyone’s cycle is different! Periods usually come every 21 to 35 days, lasting 2 to 7 days. Stress, diet, sleep, and birth control can all affect your cycle. It may take a few years to become regular, and it can change over time. 

The 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

  1. Period (Menses Phase) – Your body sheds the uterine lining. 
  2. Follicular Phase – Hormones prep your body for ovulation. 
  3. Ovulation – Around day 14, an egg is released. 
  4. Luteal Phase – Your body preps for pregnancy; if it doesn’t happen, your period begins.  

Why is My Period Irregular?

  • Stress, diet changes, and lack of sleep can throw off your cycle. 
  • Lifestyle Factors – Extreme weight loss, eating disorders, or intense exercise. 
  • Hormonal changes such as: pregnancy and breastfeeding or birth control 
  • Medical Conditions – PCOS, premature ovarian failure, PID, thyroid issues, or uterine fibroids. 

Period Hygiene 101

  • Change pads every few hours and tampons every 4-8 hours. 
  • Wash hands before and after using menstrual products. 
  • Avoid scented products that can disrupt natural pH levels and irritation. 
  • Track your cycle using a period app—it helps spot patterns and health concerns. 
  • Wear breathable clothing. 

Heavy Periods—What's Too Much?

Signs you have heavier than average bleeding: 

  • You soak through a pad or tampon every 1-2 hours. 
  • Your period lasts longer than 7 days. 
  • You pass blood clots larger than a quarter. 
  • You feel tired, dizzy, or short of breath. 

What Causes Heavy Periods?

  • Hormonal imbalances (like PCOS) 
  • Uterine issues (fibroids, polyps, or cancer) 
  • Certain medications (blood thinners, aspirin) 
  • Pregnancy complications (miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy) 

When to See a Medical Provider

  • Your period is suddenly irregular or extremely painful. 
  • You have unusual discharge or strong odor. 
  • You experience intense cramps that interfere with daily life. 

Treatment Options

  • Lifestyle changes – More sleep, less stress, balanced nutrition. 
  • Medications – Pain relievers, birth control, NSAIDs, iron supplements. 
  • Surgical options – Only if heavy bleeding becomes a major issue.  
  • Testing – Blood tests (anemia, clotting issues); Ultrasound (to check reproductive organs); Pap tests & Biopsies (to rule out infections or cancer). 

Don’t ignore your period—it’s an important sign of overall health! If something feels off, talk to a medical provider. Seek medical attention for irregular cycles, unusual pain, excessive bleeding, or major changes in menstrual patterns. 

Learn more about what the GYN (Women’s) Clinic at Pat Walker Health Center provides and call 479-575-4478 or schedule an appointment via the Patient Portal to get started.  

Sources: CDC’s Heavy Menstrual Bleeding webpage, the CDC’s Menstrual Hygiene webpage, the Cleveland Clinic’s Menstrual Cycle webpage, and the Mayo Clinic’s Menstrual Cycle webpage