How regular is a woman’s period?

In fact, it often takes a while to settle into a pattern. And once you do, that pattern will be unique to you.

The menstrual cycle, which is counted from the first day of your period to the day before your next period begins, isn’t the same for every woman. An average cycle is 28 days, but it can be as short as 21 days or as long as 35 days. Bleeding can also last anywhere between two and seven days.

Your normal menstrual flow should establish itself after the first few months of your cycle, but it may take up to a year. Go and see your doctor if you are having irregular periods or ‘spotting’ between periods – also known as ‘abnormal bleeding’. Reasons for missing a period can include stress, overdoing sporty activities, sudden weight loss, taking the pill or being pregnant.