Your period contains blood, mucus and some cells from the lining of your uterus.

When you menstruate, your uterus lining sheds and flows out of your vagina. Menstruation is commonly known as a period. There are four main phases of the menstrual cycle. Some women might reach menopause as late as 60. In Australia, the average age for women to reach menopause is 51 to 52. In Western countries, the average age for a first period is 12 to 13, but it can start as early as nine and as late as 16. For example, teenagers might have cycles that last 45 days, whereas women in their 20s to 30s might have cycles that last 21 to 38 days. The average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 to 29 days, but every woman’s cycle is different. Once you start your period, the cycle starts again.Ī menstrual cycle is measured from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period. If you are not pregnant, your hormones send a signal to your uterus to shed its lining. The menstrual cycle prepares your body for pregnancy. Talk to your GP (doctor) if you are worried about your period. Some women may experience menstrual problems (e.g. The menstrual cycle has four phases: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase. It is a complex cycle controlled by female hormones that cause regular bleeding (periods). The menstrual cycle is a natural process.

Phase 10 different phases