What Does Your Menstrual Cycle Say About Your Health? [Quiz]

As women, our periods are something very personal. During those days, we’re most in-synch with our bodies than ever before. We listen to everything that our body is trying to tell us – slow down, drink more water, get rest, eat that chocolate bar. Many doctors track our menstrual cycle to analyze the state of our health, and the truth is that our periods are very telling. Keep reading to learn more about what your menstrual cycle is trying to say about your health.

Heavy Periods

When you must change your pad/tampon every other hour, odds are you struggle with heavy periods. These could mean you have a hormonal imbalance or a bleeding disorder. Leaving heavy periods unattended can lead to anemia and an increased risk of miscarriage.

Prolonged Bleeding

The average period goes anywhere from two to seven days in length. However, people who experience periods for eight days or more can be experiencing concerning health issues. Infrequent periods can be a sign of uterine fibroids, polyps, or initial symptoms of a cancerous lesion.

Watery Blood

At the beginning of your period, thin or watery blood is not rare. However, watery blood mixed with vaginal discharge might be a sign of pregnancy. But, if your watery blood turns grayish, it could be an infection – especially if the symptoms come with a foul, strong odor.

Irregular Periods

There’s no “perfect” menstrual cycle. Around 30% of women have an irregular cycle. Only 28% of women have a 28-day cycle. Usually, a woman’s cycle fluctuates anywhere between 21 to 35 days. However, when you notice constant irregular periods and missed periods, this is often signaling something that is going on with your ovaries or your thyroid gland. Consult with your doctor to get these looked at.

Terrible Cramps

The idea of a period without pain or cramps is a dream for many women. However, that’s the way they should be. While mild discomfort is normal, this is a response to inflammation, not a medical condition. If your cramps are too often and debilitating, consider talking to your doctor about the possibility of having endometriosis.

The Color of Your Period Blood

Your period is a definitive measurement guide you can use to check your health. The color of your blood is always indicative of the current state of your health. Most colors are considered healthy or standard. However, colors like gray or black can be a sign something else is happening and are reasons enough to visit your doctor.

Make sure you’re listening to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, contact your doctor and discuss your worries.