Periods

The menstrual cycle is a natural process in the female reproductive system. It repeats every cycle from your first period (menarche) to your final period menopause.

Each cycle begins on the first day of your period and ends the day before your next period.

When hormone levels change during your menstrual cycle, it can cause physical and emotional symptoms. You can better understand your menstrual cycle by keeping track of your periods and any symptoms you notice.

How long is an average menstrual cycle?

Everyone’s menstrual cycle is different, and it can change over time. When you first get your periods, your cycle may be longer and irregular. It can take 3 to 4 years for your periods to settle into a regular pattern. For adults, a normal cycle is usually between 24 and 38 days. The average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 days.

Periods are part of your body’s menstrual cycle. A period is when blood comes out of your vagina every cycle.

In Australia, the average age to get your first period is 12 to 13, but it can start as early as 9 and as late as 16. It’s recommended you see a doctor if you haven’t had your first period by age 16.

Your final period is called menopause. In Australia, the average age to reach menopause is 51.

Your periods may change at different life stages. For example, it may be irregular in the lead-up to menopause (perimenopause).

Your periods might last from 3 to 7 days. Most people only lose a small amount of blood (33 mL on average).

At the start of your periods, the blood may be bright red and it may turn dark brown near the end.

It’s normal to see small blood clots, but if you see lots of clots or clots bigger than 3 cm in size, talk to your doctor.

You might have a small amount of blood (spotting) or pain around the time of ovulation. If this lasts longer than 3 days, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

It’s normal for your periods to have a smell. Avoid using douches or perfumed soaps or sprays as these can cause vulval irritation.

You may experience physical and emotional symptoms when you get your periods. For example:

• cramping
• bloating
• tender breasts
• irritability
• mood changes.

It’s important to rest and take time for yourself, especially if your energy or mood is low. If period-related symptoms stop you from doing normal activities, like school or work, see your doctor.

Symptoms experienced before your periods are called premenstrual syndrome or PMS.

Some health conditions are associated with periods, so it’s important to see your doctor if you have symptoms such as painful periods or heavy periods.

You can have sex during your period, but it’s important to practise safer sex to stop the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

You should always use contraception if you don’t want to get pregnant.

There are many reasons why you might need to see a doctor about your periods. For example, if you have:

• heavy periods
• painful periods
• absent periods
• unusual bleeding (e.g. bleeding between periods, after having sex or after menopause).

There are many types of period products available, and the best choice depends on your comfort, lifestyle and preferences. This page explains the different options, how to use them safely, how often to change them, and how to dispose of them properly.

Period pain is common and usually caused by the uterus tightening during your period, leading to cramping and discomfort in the pelvis, back or legs. This page explains what period pain is, what’s normal, possible causes, ways to manage it, and when to see your doctor.

Heavy periods (heavy menstrual bleeding) are common and can significantly affect daily life when bleeding is heavier or lasts longer than usual. This page explains what heavy periods are, possible causes, treatment options, and when to see your doctor for support.

Irregular periods are periods that don’t follow a typical cycle and can vary in timing, length or frequency. This page explains common causes of irregular periods, treatment options, and when to see your doctor for advice and support.

Absent periods (amenorrhoea) occur when you don’t get your periods at all, either temporarily or long term. This page explains the common causes, treatment options, and when to see your doctor if your periods haven’t started or stop unexpectedly.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the emotional and physical symptoms many people experience in the week or two before their period. This page explains common PMS symptoms, possible causes, ways to manage them, and when to see your doctor if symptoms affect daily life.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe condition that causes intense emotional and psychological symptoms in the one to two weeks before your period. This page explains how PMDD differs from PMS, common symptoms, treatment options, and when to see your doctor for support.