Period Care 101: Cycle Stages, Symptoms & Relief Tips

In this guide

Period Care: The Menstrual Cycle, Period Symptoms and Period Pain Man

The Menstrual Cycle Stages

The menstrual cycle is the time from the first day of your period to the day before your next period. Most cycles last around 28 days, but anywhere from 21 to 40 days is normal.

Stage 1: Menstruation

This is the bleeding phase, where the womb sheds its lining. Menstrual fluid contains blood cells from the uterine lining (endometrial cells) and mucus. Periods usually last between 3 days and 1 week. Sanitary products should be changed approximately every 4 hours. Explore our sanitary pads and tampons.

Stage 2: Follicular Phase

The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) prompts the ovaries to produce 5–20 follicles, each containing an immature egg. Usually only one matures while the others die. The uterine lining thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy.

Stage 3: Ovulation

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released. Progesterone prepares the womb for implantation. If pregnancy does not occur, the egg is reabsorbed, hormone levels fall, and menstruation begins. Ovulation typically lasts 10–16 days before the next period. Hormonal contraception such as the pill, patch, or injection prevents ovulation and reduces the risk of pregnancy.

Stage 4: Luteal Phase

The follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, releasing progesterone and small amounts of estrogen to maintain the uterine lining. If pregnancy occurs, hormones like HCG maintain the corpus luteum. If not, it degenerates around day 22 of a 28-day cycle, triggering menstruation. Find pregnancy and ovulation tests here.

Why Might Periods Stop?

Periods can stop due to several factors, including:

  • Pregnancy
  • Stress
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Being overweight
  • Excessive exercise
  • Use of the contraceptive pill
  • Menopause
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Period Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) occurs due to hormonal changes before your period. Period pain happens when the muscular wall of the womb contracts to shed the lining. Pain typically starts with bleeding, lasts 48–72 hours, and is worst during heavy flow. Common PMS symptoms include:

  • Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, sadness)
  • Bloating
  • Breakouts
  • Breast tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Mood swings
  • Period pain from other factors

Period pain can also be caused by medical conditions or contraceptive devices like IUDs. Changes in pattern, severity, or duration may indicate a medical issue.

Period Pain Management

To relieve pain, try our period pain relief products including tablets and heat patches, or take paracetamol.

Additional Strategies

  • Exercise: Gentle activity like walking or swimming may reduce pain.
  • Heat: Apply a heat pad or hot water bottle to the abdomen.
  • Warm Bath/Shower: Relaxes muscles and eases discomfort.
  • Massage: Light circular massage on the lower abdomen.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Yoga, pilates, or mindfulness may distract from pain.

Consult your GP if period pain is severe or if your cycle changes significantly. Visit your local Weldricks pharmacy for advice and to explore products to ease your symptoms.

Sources

FAQs

What causes period pain?

Period pain occurs when the muscular wall of the uterus contracts to shed its lining. It is influenced by hormones and can be more intense during heavy bleeding or with certain medical conditions like endometriosis.

How can I relieve period pain?

You can manage period pain with over-the-counter products like paracetamol, ibuprofen, heat pads, or menstrual relief patches. Gentle exercise, warm baths, and relaxation techniques like yoga can also help.

What is PMS and what are its symptoms?

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms caused by hormonal changes before your period. Common symptoms include bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, fatigue, and acne.

Can I prevent period pain naturally?

While you may not completely prevent period pain, lifestyle choices like regular exercise, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and using heat therapy can help reduce discomfort.

When should I see a doctor about period pain?

Consult your GP if your period pain is severe, lasts longer than usual, or your menstrual cycle changes significantly. Also seek advice if pain interferes with daily activities or if you notice unusual symptoms.

Can lifestyle changes reduce period pain?

Yes. Exercise, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, heat therapy, and relaxation techniques can help.

Published 2nd February 2021 by

Allan Green

Allan Green

Registered Pharmacist & Head of E-commerce

Allan has been a Registered Pharmacist for 25+ years

He specializes in Ecommerce and Over the Counter medicines.

He is a Registered Pharmacist, who studied at University of Bradford.

He has been with Weldricks since 2006, starting as a branch manager before moving into area management and deputy superintendent roles.

His current responsibilities include web development, marketing, content, customer service and web operations teams.

GPhC Registration: 2049602