Period Tracker

So, how does your cycle kick off? Well, it’s measured from the start of your period when you have regular bleeding (although you may notice some spotting before that). You might then be wondering where that blood has come from (and why there seems to be so much of it)?!

Your period happens because the womb lining is being shed; menstrual blood will come through your cervix and then your vaginal opening. This bleeding will usually happen for three to five days, and while you may think you’re losing pints of the stuff, the typical amount of blood in your menstrual flow is 30-40ml. For more info, look at our article on how much bleeding is normal.

After your period finishes, your body will begin prepping for ovulation again, with your uterus lining (AKA the endometrial lining) thickening to get ready for a fertilised egg. One of your ovaries will then release an egg, which will come through one of your fallopian tubes down towards the womb. If it has met a sperm on its travels, then the egg will be fertilised, and you can become pregnant. If that egg isn’t fertilised, then the womb lining isn’t needed – it’s shed, and the whole process will begin again.

If you’d like to know more about the different phases, then check out our article covering the ins and outs of the menstrual cycle. 

It can be super handy to have anidea of when your period is coming your way. Your period should never stop you living your life, but if you’re worried about that big event or holiday then our tracker can help you plan ahead. You might even find that your cycle is more regular than you realise!

Doctors also use periods as an important indicator of a woman’s overall health, and changes to it can be a symptom of certain health issues. What’s important is to understand what is normal for you, so that you recognise when there are changes before discussing them with your GP.

And if you’re looking to have a baby? Well, our tool can give you a good estimate as to when you will be fertile, so you have the best chance of getting pregnant. Read more about ovulation here.

Tracking your period can also help ensure you have the products you need when you come on – especially if you’re going to be away from home. A liner for your fifth day of bleeding when the flow is lighter is handy. A fresh Ultra+ towel for after a gym session mid-cycle? Yes, please!

Keeping a clean pair of period pants in your bag or car, so you are prepared when you are on the go is a game changer!

The average cycle is 28 days. But don’t worry if yours isn’t – it could be anything between 21 and 35 days, and it’s normal for this to vary a bit as well. Plenty of women have cycles that are slightly different in length from month to month. It’s likely that you’ll have a slightly longer cycle to begin with, but it will often become shorter as you get older.

While many women do have a fairly regular cycle – and Bodyform’s period tracker can predict the dates their next period is likely to start – irregular and missed periods can occur for numerous reasons. You might start your period early one month or have instances of missed periods on other occasions. If this is the case, especially for a prolonged time, you could keep your own period diary and make a note of any changes you notice in your body. 

If you are experiencing any sudden changes in your menstrual cycle or worried about unusual symptoms, it is recommended that you see your doctor.

Stress can also play its part. See here for more info on how stress and mood can impact your period.