Decoding Your Menstrual Cycle: What is a Normal Period?
Phase to Phase: The Hormone Health Show
with Dr. Anne Hussain, MD
If you’ve ever wondered if your cramps are "too painful," if your cycle is "too long," or if loose poops when you’re on your period are normal, this episode is a must-listen. In this solo episode, Dr. Anne Hussain explains not only what a normal menstrual cycle can look like, but also what it can feel like. She breaks down the different phases of the menstrual cycle, what you need to be paying attention to, and how to advocate for better hormonal health. The average menstruator goes through over 400 menstrual cycles in their lifetime! It’s time to stop normalizing what’s not normal so that you can live your life fully without being held back by your monthly cycle.
Takeaways
- Even though we go through over 400 menstrual cycles in our lifetime, we don’t really learn about periods in an age-appropriate way.
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Mild changes over the menstrual cycle due to hormonal change is normal–a bit of discomfort during a period, a mid-cycle twinge, some more fluid retention before your period can be part of a normal menstrual experience.
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There are two phases of the menstrual cycle: the follicular phase, which starts with your period, and the luteal phase, which starts with ovulation. Your cycle length is determined from day 1 of full flow until the day before your next period.
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Ovulation is the main start of the show that is your menstrual cycle–it’s how we make progesterone and it’s what determines the length (and regularity!) of your menstrual cycle.
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Tracking your menstrual cycle allows you to understand your hormonal changes, have a long-term record of your menstrual cycle (which will inevitably change as you go from your first to last period ever), and help you track cyclical or intermittent signs and symptoms. It also allows you to advocate and relay your experience to your health team to get the proper support in place.
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The foundations of your health–like sleep, stress management, nutrition, exercise, iron status, and connection–are all important aspects of your menstrual health and your resilience to hormone change. You may need additional support from medications, hormones, supplements, contraception, acupuncture, and counselling, depending on your health, diagnoses, age, goals, values, and lived experience.
Grab Dr. Anne's Period Literacy Handbook:
Connect with Dr. Anne Hussain, ND:
https://phasetophase.ca/
https://annehussain.com/
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