Diagram illustrating how the uterine lining builds up and breaks down during the menstrual cycle Menstruation (also known as a period, among other colloquial terms) is the regular discharge …

Menstruation — aka having your period — is when blood and tissue from your uterus comes out of your vagina. It usually happens once every month.

Dec 10, 2025 · Periods, also known as menstruation, occur when your uterus sheds its lining, causing blood and mucus to discharge from the vagina. 1 This usually occurs once a month if …

Apr 22, 2023 · Learn about how to track your menstrual cycles and what any changes may mean.

Will I Have Periods for the Rest of My Life? When women reach menopause (around age 45‒55), their periods will permanently stop. Periods also stop during pregnancy. What Is PMS? PMS …

Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period. Your cycle prepares your body for a possible pregnancy. The average cycle lasts between 24 and 38 days.

Sep 4, 2025 · Menstruation occurs when the lining of the uterus sheds, turning to blood that flows out of the body. But what’s normal is different for everyone. Learn more.

Find out about periods, including when they usually start and finish, period products, PMS, getting pregnant, and changes to your periods.