Text Size
| Print
 

Menstrual cycle

Quick Links

Menstrual cycle

Menstruation -This is the monthly discharge of blood, fluid and endometrial tissue from the uterus. It occurs because the lining of the uterus prepares itself each month to receive a fertilised ovum (egg).

The wall of the uterus becomes soft and spongy and makes an ideal settling place for the fertilised ovum. If an ovum is not fertilised it continues down the fallopian tube and passes through the uterus and down the vagina to the outside of the body. The lining of the uterus is no longer needed so it crumbles and breaks away.

The lining and blood collect in the uterus and the uterus eventually contracts and forces the 'debris' down the vagina to the outside.

Menstruation is different for every woman. It can vary greatly in the following ways:

  • Age of onset and cessation
  • Amount of blood loss
  • Duration of flow
  • Amount of discomfort
  • Length of cycle
  • Mood change
  • Physical symptoms

Menstruation continues until menopause, usually between 45 and 55 years of age.

A doctor should be consulted if:

  • periods have not started by 16 years of age
  • bleeding occurs between periods
  • periods are very heavy or blood clots are passed
  • the period lasts longer than 8 days
  • there is a persistent unpleasant odour despite personal cleanliness.

Managing menstruation

There are two main sanitary choices; tampons and sanitary pads.

Sanitary pads

  • Sanitary pads are worn outside the body.
  • As blood comes in contact with air, an unpleasant odour may develop. Daily showers, clean briefs and frequent changing of the pad solve this problem. The use of vaginal deodorant should be discouraged as chemical sprays can disturb the delicate dermatological balance of the very sensitive vulva.
  • The pads should not be flushed down the toilet.
  • They are great for wearing at night or on light days.
  • Reusable felt pads are an environmentally friendly option as they can be reused.

Tampons

  • Tampons are made of tightly packed absorbent material that absorbs the blood flow in the vagina.
  • If inserted correctly they cannot be felt and cannot fall out.
  • They are convenient to use, inconspicuous and very effective.
  • Tampons should be changed often and inserted carefully.
  • If the menstrual flow is heavy a tampon and sanitary pad may be needed.
  • Tampons should not be flushed down the toilet.
  • A reusable silicone cup is an environmentally friendly option as it can be reused.

 Tampons

Relevant GDHR Learning Activities

Early Childhood (year K-3)

Middle Childhood (year 4-7)

Resources

Illustrations

Videos

Websites