After your period is over, the lining of your uterus starts to build up again to become a thick and spongy 'nest' in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
Your period can last anywhere from 3 to 8 days, but 5 days is average. Bleeding is usually heaviest on the first 2 days. Once the bleeding stops, the uterine lining (also called the endometrium) begins to prepare for the possibility of a pregnancy. The uterine lining becomes thicker and enriched in blood and nutrients.
The final phase of the menstrual cycle is called the luteal phase. During the luteal phase, the follicle morphs into a mass of cells called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum releases progesterone, which will keep the uterine wall thick and ready for a fertilized egg to implant.
The first sign of menopause is usually a change in the normal pattern of your periods. You may start having either unusually light or heavy periods. The frequency of periods may also be affected. They may occur every two or three weeks, or they might not occur for months at a time.
Postmenopause is the time after you've been without a menstrual period for 12 months. During this stage, menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, get milder or go away. People in postmenopause are at increased risk for osteoporosis and heart disease.
Periods rarely just stop suddenly, many women experience irregular periods for some time. This might include heavier, more painful periods or lighter, less frequent ones – these patterns can go on for a number of years.
It is possible while experiencing cramping and light bleeding or spotting after your period has ended. For instance, brown discharge from the vagina can occur before or after a period. This may occur when you notice blood in the discharge as the period starts or after a period.
Periods last around 2 to 7 days, and women lose about 20 to 90ml (about 1 to 5 tablespoons) of blood in a period. Some women bleed more heavily than this, but help is available if heavy periods are a problem.
Your periods may get lighter
“About 60 percent of women older than age 40 begin to experience lighter and more manageable periods,” explains Dr. Einhorn. “Having very light periods or even skipping a period is normal and no reason for concern.
Menstrual bleeding might happen every 21 to 35 days and last 2 to 7 days. For the first few years after menstruation begins, long cycles are common. However, menstrual cycles tend to shorten and become more regular as people age.
“When the uterus is deprived of oxygen, it releases chemicals that may trigger the pain such as prostaglandins which increases uterine contractions. This type of period pain usually occurs during the second day of your period and is termed as Dysmenorrhea,” adds the expert.
Day 2 Your period still likely is heavy, and you may have cramps or stomach pain. Days 3/4 Your body removes the rest of the tissue in the uterus (womb). This sometimes can come out as dark clumps. Days 5/6/7 There is still some blood, but the cramps should be over.
Your cycle should last 26-32 days - anywhere in between is fine as long as it is regular and consistent for you. Your bleed should be the color of cranberry juice from start to finish, with no clots. A nice, strong, flow that isn't inconveniently heavy and has you running to the bathroom every hour.
Dehydration can escalate PMS and period discomfort, so drink up. Hydration prevents your blood from thickening while alleviating the muscle cramps associated with your monthly flow. Additionally, drinking water can help end your cycle faster. Eight glasses, or 64 ounces per day, really works wonders.
BY GABRIELLE LICHTERMAN. Key finding: Study shows that drinking 8.5 cups of water daily reduces menstrual cramp pain and shortens the length of menstrual bleeding compared to drinking 7 cups or less.
You can and should shower and bathe as you usually do when you have your period. Most women find that during their periods, the best way to prevent unwanted odor (caused by bacteria rather than the menstrual blood itself), is to practice good hygiene.
Spotting is light bleeding that can occur between periods. It usually appears as a small amount of blood when wiping or on underwear. Possible causes include birth control, pregnancy, menopause, and more.
Bright red blood indicates fresh blood and a steady flow. A period may start with bright red bleeding and darken towards the end of the period. Some people may find that their blood stays bright red throughout their period.
Periods can get heavier and more painful for some women after the age of 40. Sometimes it is a nuisance and sometimes it is a cause for concern.
Towards the end of your period, you should experience a decrease in the volume, or amount, of menstrual blood until it stops all together. You might also notice a change in color towards the end of your cycle and see brown period blood.
If you notice on heavy days of your period that blood seems extra-thick, and can sometimes form a jelly-like glob, these are menstrual clots, a mix of blood and tissue released from your uterus during your period. They can vary in size and color, and usually, they are nothing to worry about.