Cycle Basics
The menstrual cycle is a natural process that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It starts on the first day of bleeding and ends the day before th...
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A library of content to understand cycles, periods, fertility, symptoms, wellbeing and privacy.
The menstrual cycle is a natural process that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It starts on the first day of bleeding and ends the day before th...
Read articleCalculating your fertile window The fertile window is the short period during which pregnancy is possible. It usually lasts 5 to 6 days per cycle. It inclu...
Read articlePuberty explained Puberty is a natural stage of development when a child’s body changes into an adult body. It marks the start of physical and reproductive...
Read articleWhy is my period late? A late period is common and often not serious. Many factors can temporarily delay ovulation and shift the cycle. Common causes inclu...
Read articleUnderstanding vaginal discharge Vaginal discharge is normal and helps keep the vagina clean and balanced. Its appearance changes during the cycle, which is...
Read articlePeriod blood colors Period blood can vary in color from cycle to cycle. Most changes are normal. - Bright red often means fresh flow and is common at the s...
Read articleRelieve period pain naturally Menstrual cramps are common. Many people feel lower‑belly pain, fatigue, or backache. Natural methods often help: - Heat: a h...
Read articlePremenstrual syndrome (PMS) PMS is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that appear a few days before a period. It happens during the luteal phase af...
Read articleDiet and your cycle Nutrition can influence energy, mood, and symptoms during the cycle. Helpful habits: - Iron‑rich foods (lentils, spinach, meat) after b...
Read articleExercise and hormones Movement can support hormone balance and reduce symptoms. - Menstrual phase: rest or gentle movement - Follicular phase: energy rises...
Read articleThe impact of sleep Sleep affects hormones, mood, and pain tolerance. Poor sleep can worsen PMS symptoms. Tips for better rest: - keep a consistent schedul...
Read articleHormonal acne Breakouts around the cycle are common, especially before periods. Hormone changes can increase oil production. What may help: - gentle cleans...
Read articleChoosing contraception There are many options: pills, patches, rings, IUDs, implants, condoms, and more. Each has benefits and considerations. Things to co...
Read articleLibido and hormones Desire can change throughout the cycle. Many people feel increased libido around ovulation, and lower desire during the luteal or menst...
Read articleSex during your period Having sex during periods is safe for most people. It can even reduce cramps for some. Tips: - use protection to prevent STIs and pr...
Read articleCan you get pregnant on your period? It is less likely but possible, especially with short cycles. Sperm can live up to 5 days, so ovulation soon after ble...
Read articleCommon infections The most common issues include: - Yeast infections: itching, thick discharge - Bacterial vaginosis: fishy odor, grayish discharge - UTIs:...
Read articleConsent and pleasure Consent means a clear, voluntary yes. It can be withdrawn at any time. Healthy sexuality includes: - open communication - respect for...
Read articleEndometriosis Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause pain and heavy periods. Common signs: -...
Read articlePolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a hormonal condition that can affect ovulation. Possible signs: - irregular periods - acne or excess hair growth -...
Read articleHeavy periods Heavy bleeding can be exhausting and may lead to anemia. Signs include: - soaking through products quickly - passing large clots - bleeding l...
Read articlePreparing for a gyno appointment To get the most out of your visit: - track your cycle dates and symptoms - list medications and contraception - prepare qu...
Read articleAmenorrhea Amenorrhea is the absence of periods. It can be primary (periods never start) or secondary (periods stop for 3 months or more). Causes include:...
Read articleFibroids and cysts Fibroids are benign growths in the uterus. Ovarian cysts are fluid‑filled sacs on the ovaries. Many are harmless but can cause symptoms....
Read articleThe rise of period underwear Period underwear has absorbent layers that replace pads or tampons. Pros - reusable and eco‑friendly - comfortable and discree...
Read articleUsing a menstrual cup A menstrual cup is a reusable device placed inside the vagina to collect blood. Benefits - long‑lasting and eco‑friendly - higher cap...
Read articleTampons and pads Both options are common and effective. Tampons Pros: discreet, good for swimming. Cons: risk of dryness, must change every 4–8 hours. Pads...
Read articleFree flow (instinctive flow) This method involves learning to sense and release menstrual flow without products. How it works - noticing body signals - str...
Read articleEnvironmental impact of periods Disposable pads and tampons create significant waste and contain plastic. Greener alternatives - period underwear - menstru...
Read articleToxic shock syndrome (TSS) TSS is a rare but serious infection, often linked to prolonged tampon use. Symptoms - sudden high fever - rash, dizziness - vomi...
Read articleIrritability and PMS Irritability is a common PMS symptom. Hormonal fluctuations affect mood and stress sensitivity. Helpful strategies: - regular movement...
Read articlePMDD PMDD is a severe form of PMS with intense emotional and physical symptoms before periods. Signs may include: - severe mood swings, anxiety, or anger -...
Read articleStress and the menstrual cycle Stress can delay ovulation and change cycle length. It can also worsen PMS symptoms. To reduce impact: - practice relaxation...
Read articleSelf‑compassion and the cycle Self‑compassion means treating yourself with kindness, especially during hard days. Ways to practice: - speak to yourself gen...
Read articleLunar cycle and menstrual cycle Some people notice a connection between their period and the lunar phases. Scientific evidence is limited, but observing yo...
Read articleMenstrual journaling Keeping a cycle journal helps you understand your body over time. Track: - period dates and flow - symptoms and mood - sleep, stress,...
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