There are many women who suffer from a common misconception that they are having abnormal periods, even though they actually have a normal monthly cycle. There are many reasons why women may think this and it is typically not their fault as they are generally not fully aware of what a normal period is. When it comes to the question of your menstrual cycle, whether it is

normal or not, there are many women who find this question difficult to answer. The following are some helpful points that will help you learn whether your period is normal or not:

• If you see blood clots you should not panic. These clots are actually the clots of tissue in your menstruation. It is a quite common occurrence and there is also no cause for alarm as these blood clots are generally caused by the shredding of the lining of the uterus.

• Normal menstrual bleeding lasts around 5 days, but can be as little as 3 days and as much as 8 days.

• If you are actively involved in sports and other activities you may often skip your periods. This again is a very normal phenomenon and you do not need to worry if it occurs.

• Menstrual cramps are normal and they can range from mild to severe. There are some women who do not experience menstrual cramps at all. If you experience painful and severe menstrual cramps or unusual cramping from your normal period, you should consult a doctor.

The above symptoms indicate that you have a normal period. With the following symptoms, you should consult with a doctor, preferably a gynecologist to make sure there is not a problem:

• If you are a female under eleven or in the post menopausal state you should consult your doctor if you face vaginal bleeding.

• If menstrual bleeding exceeds over 8 days you should consult your doctor.

• If you are over 16 and have not yet experienced your first period yet, you should consult your doctor. There is a possibility that you are suffering a syndrome called polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS.

• You need to change sanitary napkins or pads every one to two hours, this is quite a lot of flow and should be checked out.

• You experience heavy bleeding than normal. If it’s different than your previous periods, then have it checked out, just in case.

• You get bouts of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, fainting, bloodshot eyes, muscle aches or other unusual symptoms during your periods.