What is a "Normal" period?

This is a question that I get asked a lot!
I thought that I would take a moment to share what is usual and what is unusual where periods are concerned.

Many of us think that suffering during menstruation is normal... it`s not. It`s common, but it isn`t how it should be.

​So what is a "normal" period?

Well - there`s no such thing as "normal" as we are all so different, but here are some features of what it should and should`t be like...

1. Most peoples cycles (the time it takes between from day 1 of your period until your next one) is usually between 26 - 34 days during your reproductive years. 28 day cycles are not the most common length. Teenages will commonly have cycles from 24 - 38 days and peri-menopause brings cycles of varying lengths - 24 days to missing periods is common.

2. It`s normal for your cycle length to vary by as much as 6 or 7 days from month to month.

3. A period should last anywhere between 3 - 7 days. Any shorter or longer than this is a symptom of something going on hormonally.

4.Usually the heaviest day of your period is day 2. On your heaviest day, you shouldn`t need any more than 6 pads or tampons per day. If you do, then this is classed as a a heavy period and a sign of an imbalanced.

5. 25 - 80ml of blood loss is normal, that`s between 5 regular tampons for your whole period - 16 regular tampons, or 8 super tampons. If you bleed less or more than this over your whole period, you have an imbalance in your hormones.

6. Menstrual fluid should be mostly liquid, with very small clots, if any.

7. Mild, occasional cramps are normal. These should disappear with ibuprofen. If you are still in pain whilst taking ibuprofen then this is excessive and is a sign of an imbalance. Debilitating pain is NEVER normal. Normal cramps don`t disrupt your day or cause time off work.

8. It`s normal for breasts to feel fuller, but painful breasts, cysts or fibrous lumps are a sign your hormones need balancing.

9. You shouldn`t get headaches.

10. Mild mood shifts are normal the week before your period. These should not be extreme or disrupt your life. If you are suffering from excessive PMT or PMDD then your hormones are in need of a balance.


If you think that you are suffering with some of the symptoms that suggest that your hormones are a little imbalanced, and would like to do something about it then get in touch and see how I can help.