Women's health

Menstrual Matters

Periods can tell us a lot about our health.

Periods vary a great deal between women, which can make it hard to know what is usual and what is worth discussing.

These pages describe the menstrual cycle, the changes that are commonly reported, and the conditions that can lie behind heavy, painful or irregular bleeding.

3 published articles across 2 sections

A classroom scene contrasting 30-day and 26-day menstrual cycles

Don't assume that because a symptom is common, it must always be normal — but equally, most symptoms have straightforward explanations.

Understanding your cycle

What is a normal period?Periods vary enormously between women. The more useful question is whether this is normal for you, and whether something has changed.

Common concerns