What is a menstrual cycle?


A menstrual period is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining through the vagina, a natural part of the menstrual cycle. It occurs when a fertilised egg does not implant in the uterus, leading to a drop in hormone levels. This process typically lasts 3 to 7 days and is a sign of reproductive health, marking the beginning of a new cycle. Anything longer or shorter than this can be considered abnormal and may need medical consultation.

How to calculate a menstrual cycle and menstrual period
To calculate a menstrual cycle and period using a period tracking tool, start by logging the first day of your period each month. The tool calculates your cycle length by measuring the number of days between the first days of consecutive periods. This information can also be used to determine the length of your menstrual cycle and predict when the next one will most likely occur.

Why is it important to track menstrual periods?

• Predicting periods: Tracking your periods can help you predict when your next period will occur.
• Tracking fertility: Tracking your periods can help you identify when you would be most fertile. It would be ideal for people trying to conceive to plan intercourse based on when the fertile period is.
• Identifying irregularities: Tracking your periods can help you identify irregularities such as a missed period or periods that last longer than usual. Irregular periods can often be a sign of an underlying issue like PCOD or PCOS, so it is important to check with your doctor. However, sometimes delays can occur due to stress, illnesses or hormonal fluctuations and are not always a cause for concern
• Managing symptoms: If you have severe symptoms like cramps, headaches and mood swings, tracking your periods can help you manage these symptoms better. If any of these symptoms are too severe, it is best to consult a doctor.

Common symptoms before your periods start

• Mood swings
• Bloating
• Breasts feeling sore
• Acne
• Cramps
• Vaginal discharge

Start tracking today!

1. Can I get pregnant if I have irregular periods?
   Yes, you can get pregnant as long as you ovulate. Sometimes, menstrual bleeding does not occur despite ovulation having taken place. This happens due to many reasons like hormonal imbalances, health conditions or birth control. However, you might have still ovulated. You can check the texture of your cervical mucus, your basal body temperature, use an ovulation predictor kit or check with your doctor to find out if you have ovulated.
2. When will I be most fertile?
   Women are most fertile during ovulation and the five days leading up to it. This does not mean that it is not possible to get pregnant during other phases of the menstrual cycle, it just means that the ovulation phase has the highest fertility rates.