Duration of the menstrual cycle

To calculate the length of your cycle, count the number of days between the 1st day of your period and the start of your next period.

This calculation should be repeated for at least 3 cycles for greater accuracy.

My cycle is short

A cycle that is too short is one that lasts less than 21 days. It’s not always a problem, but sometimes it’s a sign of an ovulation disorder.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a fibroid or a disorder of the hypothalamus can be responsible.

If your cycle is short for at least 3 cycles, go and see a gynaecologist to find out what’s going on.

My cycle is long

A long cycle is one that lasts more than 35 days for more than 3 months in a row.

Certain things can upset the cycle:

– breastfeeding (you don’t see your period when you breastfeed several times a day)

– stopping contraception

– changes in your life (rapid weight gain or loss, poor diet, stress, etc).

If you have a long cycle for more than 3 cycles in a row, it’s best to consult a midwife or gynecologist.

There are several situations in which it is normal not to menstruate:

– pregnancy

– exclusive breastfeeding

– the menopause

For young girls, this can also happen during the first 2 years of menstruation.

In other cases, the best thing to do is consult a gynaecologist.