Menstruation or sometimes referred to as periods is the monthly flow of blood from the uterus through the vagina in all girls.
During your menstruation cycle, the eggs in the ovaries mature and the lining of the uterus thickens to prepare for a possible pregnancy.
About half way the cycle, a mature egg leaves the ovary and this happens about once a month. This is called ovulation. The egg travels through the fallopian tubes towards the uterus and when it’s not fertilized, the linings of the uterus are shed and blood comes out at the end of your cycle.
The menstruation cycle begins at the first day of your menstruation, the cycle takes around 28 days (sometimes longer, sometimes shorter – depends on the girl) and ovulation takes place half-way the cycle. If the cycle takes longer, the ovulation takes place later in the cycle and if the ovulation takes place shorter, the ovulation might take place earlier.
The first flow normally happening between 9 to 15 years and can last 3 to 7 days. This can defer according to one’s body, girls should understand that it’s very normal and natural.
There are various signs to show that you’re ready to receive your period and these include;
- Some girls get excessively tired.
- Breasts become painful or tender and swell during this period.
- There is an urge to throw up or vomit.
- Some girls feel sleepy.
- Lower abdominal pains.
Some girls don’t get to experience anything during this period.
Health practices during menstrual hygiene.
This period is short but tricky, there practices you are supposed to do to keep clean and fresh.
- In case you are using a non reusable sanitary pad, dispose it off after use in day.
- You need to wash the reusable sanitary pads everyday for further use.
- Always remember to dry yourself and wear a fresh sanitary towel to avoid soiling your clothes.
Things to remember about menstruation.
- Menstruation is natural and healthy.
- The menstruation period lasts about 3 to 7 days but could be more or less.
- The average menstruation cycle is 28 days but can go upto 31 days, you start counting from the first day of the period to the next.
- Visit a health center if you get any problem during menstruation.
- If your are 16 years and above and you haven’t received or had your period yet, please see a doctor.
