Menstruation

What is Menstruation?

Menstruation, also known as a period, is a normal bodily process that occurs with the onset of puberty. With other significant changes occurring in the body (e.g., hair growth, breast development, growth spurts), the reproductive system starts to develop to prepare for reproduction.

What happens?

What happens during menstruation?

A female reproductive system consists of two ovaries that contain eggs (microscopic) at birth.
During puberty, hormones in the brain signal ovaries to start maturing those eggs and release female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone). These hormones build up the lining of the uterus (endometrium).
Each month, one mature egg is released from the ovaries and travels through the fallopian tubes for fertilization.
The reproductive system changes to prepare for possible fertilization (fusion of sperm and egg). The lining of the uterus called endometrium thickens like a cushion and prepares to receive the fertilized embryo (baby in early stages of development right after fertilization).
If the egg is not fertilized by a sperm, the lining of the uterus sheds and flows out of the vagina in the form of menstrual blood. This is marked as the first day of the menstrual cycle. This cycle is repeated every month unless pregnancy occurs.

When does menstruation start?

Menstruation starts around the ages of 12 - 13 for most people with uteruses. The first period is called menarche and occurs around 2-3 years after breast development. However, it can be as early as 10 years and as late as 15 years, depending on individuals' health status and bodily processes. For the first few years, your period might be irregular and difficult to predict. It is recommended to keep track of your periods with the help of a calendar or an app so that you can be prepared.

The timing for everyone’s period is different and there is no need to be insecure about your body if you are experiencing changes earlier or later than your peers. However, visiting a doctor if you haven’t gotten your period till the age of 15-16 is recommended.

The Menstrual Cycle

The animation below walks you through the different stages of the Menstrual Cycle!

What is Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

Managing Menstruation

Products and Options:

A variety of menstrual products are available, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. These products cater to different needs and preferences, and many are available for free at community health centers.

Managing Gender Dysphoria:

For some, menstruation can exacerbate gender dysphoria. Strategies to manage these feelings include using menstrual products that align with one's gender identity or seeking hormonal treatments to suppress menstruation.

Hormonal Management:

Options for managing or suppressing menstruation include birth control pills, patches, or injections. These can be accessed through Canadian healthcare providers and may help alleviate dysphoria or menstrual symptoms.