Genetic research may point the way. — The Conversation published an article by Krina Zondervan (Professor, Reproductive and Genomic Epidemiology, University of Oxford) and Thomas Tapmeier (Senior Research Fellow in Women’s Health, Monash University) describing their study, which identified the NPSR1 gene as associated with Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a painful inflammatory condition associated with prolonged periods, short…

The global pandemic reminds us that menstrual health remains an afterthought. — Last week the National Institutes of Health announced that it awarded grants to investigate a possible link between COVID-19 vaccination and reports of irregular menstrual cycles, missing periods, and heavier flows. Annaliese Griffin’s piece in the The Cut is timely. Her “exceptionally regular” periods were no longer exceptionally regular, and…

Some common things to consider if your periods consistently seem abnormal — Periods are personal. Unless you’re regulating your period with some form of birth control, there’s a good chance it doesn’t appear precisely as planned. But how do you know if your period is irregular? Length and Intensity of Menstrual Cycles Research suggests that periods generally last around 5 days, give…

Like most things, it depends on what you’re looking for. — Consider this: teens are just learning about their menstrual cycle, and their period is likely to be irregular at first. What’s more, tracking their period requires forming a new habit. Teens can benefit from an app that’s informative and simple to use. The problem is, most period trackers are designed…

What exactly is happening during your menstrual cycle? — Conceptually, the menstrual cycle is usually divided into two phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Follicular Phase, roughly weeks 1 & 2 The follicular phase begins with a period — that is, the shedding of the uterine lining — followed by the creation of a new uterine lining…

If you don’t know, now you know. — Here’s how my annual gynecology exams used to start: “When was the first day of your last period?” “Uh…” I’d search the calendar on my phone for the special set of characters I use to indicate that my period arrived, but it wasn’t easy. …

Hormones can be pretty cool. — Human physiology and behavior are regulated by hormones, which are specialized chemicals secreted by glands that travel through the bloodstream to organs and tissue, where they inform activities related to metabolism, growth, cognition, sleep, and many other functions, including menstruation. All humans have the same hormones, regardless of sex. What…

Let’s open up the conversation. — Generally speaking, “period talk” remains taboo, but we’re heartened by efforts to start conversations. Organizations like PERIOD are “demanding an end to period poverty and stigma” by raising awareness and distributing menstrual products to people without easy access to them. Films like the Oscar-winning documentary short Period. End of Sentence…