The series of changes that happens to your body in the lead up to your period is known as the ‘menstrual cycle’. It’s through this cycle that human reproduction is made possible.

The diagram to the right shows a basic breakdown of the female anatomy. It’s very important to become familiar with your body!

This is how it works:
Stage 1: During ovulation an egg is released from the ovaries and travels through the fallopian tubes towards the uterus.

Stage 2: In preparation for fertilization, the lining of the uterus increases in thickness and fills with blood.

Stage 3: If the egg is not fertilized and pregnancy doesn’t occur, this lining breaks down and leaves the body. This is when you start bleeding and it’s the bleeding that’s called menstruation and it usually lasts between 2 to 7 days.