Confused about why your body works the way it does?
As a girl experiencing your first periods, it might feel strange, exciting, or even a little overwhelming. But guess what? Your body is doing something completely natural and incredible—it’s a cycle that connects you to the power of life itself. Let’s break it down and uncover the fascinating science behind menstruation.
What is menstruation?
Menstruation, or a period, is part of a monthly cycle where the body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy. If there’s no pregnancy, the body sheds the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium), resulting in bleeding through the vagina. This process is controlled by hormones and usually happens every 28-35 days, though cycles can vary. For girls aged 7-13( tween ), this is often the beginning of their journey through puberty.
Keep reading to discover how your body works!
Understanding the menstrual cycle means understanding the magic of your reproductive system. Let’s explore it step by step so you can appreciate how each part works together harmoniously.
- Anatomy 101: Meet Your Reproductive System
Your reproductive system is a team of organs working together. Each has a special role:
Ovaries: These almond-shaped organs store your eggs (ova) and produce hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
Fallopian Tubes: Pathways that connect the ovaries to the uterus. If an egg is fertilized, it travels through these tubes.
Uterus (Womb): A pear-shaped organ where a baby can grow if an egg is fertilized.
Endometrium: The inner lining of the uterus that thickens each month to prepare for a potential pregnancy.
Cervix: The lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It helps regulate the flow of blood during your period.
Vagina: The passage through which blood exits your body during menstruation.
In girls aged 7-13, the main parts of the vulva and their functions include:
Mons Pubis: The mons pubis is a fatty pad that covers the pubic bone above, providing protection to the pelvic structure. During puberty, hair begins to grow on the mons pubis.
Labia Majora: The labia majora are two larger skin folds of the vulva, containing sweat and oil glands, which protect the internal reproductive organs from infections and provide cushion against external stimuli.
Labia Minora: The labia minora are located inside the labia majora and are two smaller, hairless skin folds. Their main functions are to protect the vaginal and urethral openings, and to enhance sensation during sexual intercourse.
Clitoris: The clitoris is a nerve-rich organ located at the front where the labia minora meet.
Vaginal Opening: The vaginal opening is the entrance to the vagina. It is the passageway for menstrual blood and other secretions, as well as for intercourse and childbirth.
Urethral Opening: Located above the vaginal opening, the urethral opening is where urine exits the body through the urethra.
Each of these parts plays a crucial role in a girl’s physiological and reproductive health. During puberty, these parts will change along with other parts of the body.
- The Menstrual Cycle
Your menstrual cycle has four phases. Each phase is driven by changes in hormone levels, which tell your body what to do:
Follicular Phase: This phase starts on the first day of your period. Hormones signal your ovaries to prepare an egg, and the uterine lining begins to rebuild.
Ovulation: Around the middle of your cycle, an egg is released from the ovary. This is the time when you’re most likely to get pregnant if sperm is present.
Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the uterus gets ready for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, hormone levels drop, signaling the body to prepare for a period.
Menstrual Phase: The shedding of the uterine lining marks the start of your period. This is the beginning of your "period" and Day 1 of your cycle. Bleeding may last anywhere from 4-7 days, with the most blood loss occurring in the first 3 days.
- Follicular Phase: Building the Foundation
In the first half of your cycle, the pituitary gland in your brain releases a hormone called FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone). This hormone helps your ovaries develop several follicles, but usually only one becomes dominant. The dominant follicle matures into an egg.
- Luteal Phase: Preparing for What’s Next
After ovulation, the empty follicle transforms into the - corpus luteum, which produces hormones to support a potential pregnancy. If fertilization doesn’t occur, this structure breaks down, and your body prepares for menstruation.
- The Menstrual Phase: Your Body’s Natural Reset
The menstrual phase is when your body releases the uterine lining that’s no longer needed. This phase can last 3-7 days and is a healthy, natural process. Hormones such as prostaglandins help the uterus contract, which can sometimes cause cramps. The entire cycle repeats every 28 days or so, but it's different for everyone. It's common for young women to have irregular cycles for the first couple of years after they get their period. As you get older, your period should become more regular. Keeping track of when your period stops and starts will help you better understand your cycle.
Embrace the Magic of Your Body
Now that you understand the science behind your period, remember: it’s a sign your body is growing and working as it should. Feeling proud of how amazing your body is can help you navigate these changes with confidence.
Conclusion
Menstruation is more than just a monthly event—it’s a miraculous cycle that keeps your body in harmony. By learning about each phase and how it works, you can better understand and celebrate the incredible science behind your period.