Menstrual health: understanding cycles and medical warning signs

The menstrual cycle is a hormone-regulated physiological process involving the brain, ovaries, and uterus. Experts from Plan International Ecuador describe the cycle in four distinct phases: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. While a 28-day cycle is common, durations between 21 and 35 days are considered normal.

Various medical conditions can alter the menstrual cycle, including polycystic ovary syndrome (recently renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome), endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, and thyroid disorders. Other contributing factors include stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, and hormonal contraceptives.

Health experts emphasize that incapacitating pain or excessive bleeding should not be normalized. Identifying the underlying causes of irregularities is essential for protecting reproductive health and quality of life.