About Menstruation : Menstruation 101

Chapter 2

Menstruation in Different Life Stages

How menstruation changes across the stages of a woman's life. The chapter starts with menarche, the first period, typically around the age of 12, and the physical changes of puberty that come with it. It then covers the reproductive years, noting how stress, lifestyle and conditions such as PCOS can lead to irregular periods for some people. Readers learn why periods stop during pregnancy and may be delayed afterwards, and how irregular cycles can signal perimenopause, which usually begins in the 40s. The chapter ends with menopause, defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, and explains what postmenopausal bleeding is.

Chapter 3

The Phases and Hormones of the Menstrual Cycle

This chapter breaks the menstrual cycle into its four phases: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase. For each one it explains what is happening to hormone levels and in the ovaries and uterus. Readers learn why oestrogen and progesterone are low during a period, how the follicular phase overlaps with menstruation and begins with signals from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, and why usually only one follicle matures. It describes ovulation as the release of a mature egg, how the follicle then becomes the corpus luteum, and how falling hormone levels when pregnancy does not occur trigger the next period.

Chapter 4

Menstrual Syndrome

A closer look at premenstrual syndrome, also called premenstrual tension. The chapter explains that hormonal changes before a period can cause physical symptoms, emotional symptoms or both. While the exact cause of PMS is unknown, it describes how it may be linked to hormonal shifts after ovulation. Readers learn how common PMS is, with figures from the Office of Women's Health, and which symptoms are typical, from bloating, cramps, acne and breast tenderness to irritability and anxiety. The chapter also introduces premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a more severe form that can include depression, and encourages readers to seek help if symptoms are prolonged or worsening.

Chapter 5

Caring For Your Cycle

The final chapter covers how to look after yourself during your period. It begins with why menstrual health education matters, especially for teenage girls, then turns to choosing menstrual products, drawing on the Apple Women's Health Study. Practical hygiene guidance follows, such as how often to change sanitary pads and why handwashing matters. The chapter also covers comfort items for cramps, the importance of iron and vitamin C, staying hydrated and how apps and journals can help you track symptoms and ovulation. It ends by explaining which signs, such as unusually heavy bleeding, severe pain or missed cycles, mean you should see a healthcare professional.