Understanding Your Period: Hormonal Changes, Cramps & Bleeding

Changes in hormone levels: During your period, the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone drop. This can cause a range of symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and breast tenderness.

Menstrual cramps: Menstrual cramps are caused by the contractions of the uterus as it sheds its lining. These cramps can be mild or severe, and they can last for a few days or the entire period.

Bleeding: The menstrual bleeding is caused by the shedding of the uterine lining. The bleeding can be light or heavy, and it can last for a few days or up to a week.

Other symptoms: Some women also experience other symptoms during their period, such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If you have any concerns about your period, talk to your doctor.