A period, also known as menstruation, is a normal part of a woman's monthly cycle. Every month, a woman's body prepares for a potential pregnancy. When pregnancy doesn't occur, the lining of the uterus (womb) sheds. This shedding process results in a flow of blood and tissue from the vagina, which is what we call a period.
Here are some key points to understand about periods:
- Normal vaginal bleeding: A period is a natural and healthy process, typically lasting 3-7 days.
- Sign of puberty: For girls, the start of their period is a sign that they are nearing the end of puberty.
- Monthly cycle: The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person.
- Period poverty: Many girls and women around the world face challenges accessing menstrual hygiene products due to affordability issues, lack of education, or cultural stigma.
