FAQ — Women's Health Questions

What is a normal menstrual cycle length?

🩸 Menstruation

Most menstrual cycles range from 21 to 35 days, counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. A typical period lasts 2–7 days. Cycles can vary slightly month to month, which is normal.

Why is my period late or irregular?

🩸 Menstruation

Stress, sudden weight change, travel, illness, intense exercise, and hormonal conditions like PMOS or thyroid disorders can all delay or change your cycle. An occasional irregular cycle is common, but if it happens often, see a gynaecologist.

Is it normal to have period pain?

🩸 Menstruation

Mild to moderate cramping in the lower abdomen during the first day or two is common. Pain that stops you from daily activities, lasts the whole period, or gets progressively worse is worth discussing with a doctor.

How much blood is normal to lose during a period?

🩸 Menstruation

A typical period results in about 30–72 ml of blood loss. Needing to change a heavily soaked pad or tampon every 1–2 hours, or passing large clots, can be a sign of heavy bleeding worth checking.

How often should I change my pad or tampon?

🩸 Menstruation

Change a pad every 4–6 hours and a tampon every 4–8 hours, regardless of how full it looks, to reduce infection risk. Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours.

Is it safe to use a menstrual cup?

🩸 Menstruation

Yes. Menstrual cups are safe and reusable when used correctly. Empty and rinse every 4–12 hours depending on flow, and sterilise by boiling between cycles.

When am I most likely to get pregnant?

🤰 Pregnancy

The fertile window is roughly the 5 days before ovulation plus the day of ovulation itself. Ovulation typically happens around 12–14 days before your next period in a regular cycle.

Are safe days a reliable form of contraception?

🤰 Pregnancy

Calendar-based safe-day estimates are useful for awareness but not highly reliable on their own, especially with irregular cycles. For dependable contraception, condoms, hormonal methods, or an IUD are recommended.

When should I see a gynaecologist?

💜 Sexual Wellness

Consider a visit if you notice very heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe pain, periods stopping for 3+ months without pregnancy, bleeding between periods, unusual discharge with odour, or any change that concerns you. Annual check-ups are recommended from your mid-20s.

Women's Health FAQs

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