Written by Pamela Udejimba

The menstrual cycle is a complex process that women of reproductive age go through. It is an important aspect of a womans reproductive system and has a significant impact on her general health. It is critical for women to understand what is normal during the menstrual cycle and when to seek medical assistance. This article will go over the menstrual cycle, what is typical, and when you should see a doctor.
The menstrual cycle is a monthly process in which a womans body prepares for pregnancy. It is regulated by hormones, including oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones tell the ovaries to release an egg, which goes to the uterus via the fallopian tubes. If the egg is fertilized, it develops into a foetus and implants in the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in a menstrual period.
A menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 and 35 days, with the average being about 28 days.  The menstrual cycle is divided into three phases: the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase, and the luteal phase. The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts for about 14 days. During this phase, the ovaries begin to produce follicles, which contain eggs. One follicle will become dominant, and the others will shrink and disappear. The ovulatory phase occurs when the dominant follicle releases an egg, which travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus. This stage lasts one to two days and occurs around day 14 of the menstrual cycle. The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts for about 14 days. During this stage, the body produces progesterone, which aids in the preparation of the uterus for a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in a menstrual period.
Now lets take a look at what is normal during the menstrual cycle. Some common symptoms for women include bloating, cramping, mood swings, and breast tenderness. It is important to note, however, that each womans experience will be different, and not all women will suffer the same symptoms. There are some instances when women should seek medical attention during their menstrual cycle. These include:
Heavy bleeding: If your period lasts more than seven days or you need to replace your pad or tampon every hour, it could be an indication of a more serious problem.

Severe pain: While having cramps is a common menstrual cycle symptom, severe pain that interferes with daily activities could be a sign of endometriosis, fibroids, or other conditions.

Irregular menstrual cycles: If your menstrual cycle is consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Unusual discharge: If you are experiencing unusual discharge, such as a foul odour, itching, or burning, it could be a sign of an infection.

Missed periods: A missed period could indicate pregnancy or an underlying medical problem.
It is critical for women to understand what is typical during the menstrual cycle and when to seek medical assistance. It is always best to consult with your healthcare professional if you are experiencing any strange symptoms in order to rule out any underlying medical concerns. Have you ever had any strange symptoms throughout your menstrual cycle? Please share your ideas and experiences in the comments section below.