All cycles are unique, but between pre-period, period and ovulation, there are a few things we all have in common:
- • Pre-PeriodThe dreaded Premenstrual Syndrome. Some common symptoms of PMS are headaches, bloating, irritability and crying more than normal. In other words, that urge to sit on the couch in sweatpants with a tub of ice cream and sob while watching ‘The Notebook’. Yeah, we’ve all been there.
Do you have the 'when is my period due' feeling? It’s common to experience PMS in the 3 days leading up to your period. And just so you know: diet, caffeine and stress can increase the intensity of PMS symptoms. - • PeriodOnce the bleeding begins, you can mark the start of your period. But why do we bleed in the first place? The answer is simple: your womb lining is shedding and leaving your body (in the form of blood) since your egg wasn’t fertilized.
Usually, periods can be long between 4 and 7 days, as the heaviest days will be the first two. Average cycle length is 28 days but can variate from 21 to 35 days (to work yours out use a period cycle calculator).
See your doctor if you find yourself bleeding through six or seven regular tampons a day or if you have your period for more than 7 days. - • Peak OvulationThis is the time when you’re ovulating and at the highest risk for pregnancy. This fertile time lasts about 6 days. In a 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs on day 14.