Period Health 101: What Your Cycle Is Telling You
Your period is sometimes called your "fifth vital sign" — and for good reason. Changes in your menstrual cycle can signal important things about your overall health.
What's "Normal" Anyway?
First, let's ditch the idea of a perfect 28-day cycle. That's a textbook average, not a rule. Normal cycles range from 21 to 35 days, and your period can last anywhere from 2 to 7 days.
What matters more than hitting a specific number is knowing what's normal for you — and noticing when things change.
Period Color Guide
When to See a Doctor
Track your cycle for a few months and talk to a healthcare provider if you notice:
- ●Periods suddenly becoming much heavier or lighter
- ●Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
- ●Bleeding between periods
- ●Severe pain that disrupts your daily life
- ●Periods stopping for 3+ months (if not pregnant)
- ●Significant clots larger than a quarter
The Bottom Line
Your period is a window into your health. Pay attention to it, track it, and don't be afraid to talk about it — with friends, family, or your doctor. The more we normalize these conversations, the better care we all get.