What is Menstruation? How does it occur?

Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus resulting in the vaginal discharge of blood and tissues. Also known as a period, menstruation is a perfectly normal and healthy occurrence that typically occurs for 4-7 days each month. A menstruator hits menarche (the first period) anytime between the age of 8-13 years, followed by menopause (the last period) which can occur any time after the age of 45 years. The phase in between is when a menstruator is in the child-bearing years.

During menstruation, it is of utmost importance that the menstruator uses sanitary products that are clean and hygienic. The disposal of such products must also be undertaken with great care. There is a variety of sanitary products available in the market today; sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, etc. While each of these products has its own pros and cons, using any of them is ideal as long as they are regularly changed (or washed in case of menstrual cups) and hygienically disposed.