With the collaboration of
Dr. Constantine Samaras
Obstetrician - Gynaecologist - Endocrinologist

1. Menstruation: what is it?
Menstruation...even if it seems like the 'scary’ movie of the month, it is extremely important to the female nature, since it is related to the ability of bearing children. The endometrium...a coat which covers the internal uterus prepares itself each month (by getting enlarged and enriched with nutrients) to potentially accept and develop the fetus. If no ovum is fertilized, the coat dissolved amongst a quantity of blood, only to restart the endometrial developing process of the next cycle. This will follow month after month...

2. The truth about the ovum
Each woman, before even born, has 2 million ovum in her ovaries. In adolescence, the ovum number is about 400.000, but only about 400 follicles mature and ovulate during her life. Mature ovum will start being released in adolescence when the monthly cycle of the period begins and ends with the menopause (end of period). The release of an ovum per cycle, in 1 of the 2 ovaries, is called ovulation.

3. When is my next period due?
On average, every woman's period is on a 28-day cycle. However, this is not definite and in many cases the menstruation may appear anywhere between the 21st and 45th day. In the first years, the period is likely to appear at random intervals, but over the years, the period cycle is stabilized. As a result, most women can estimate their menstruation cycle. It is important once the period begins, to record the dates of your cycle on a calendar and keep track of how prompt your cycle is. This recording will prove very useful, whether scheduling your next visit to your gynaecologist, or when planning...your vacation! If your period is still irregular, or delayed for longer than a week, it is advisable that you consult a gynaecologist. If your cycle is stabilized and is lagging behind, you should have the following in mind: pregnancy (if you’ve had sex), stress, diet or weight loss, excessive exercise, or a recent onset of a drug. In any case, a gynaecologist’s opinion is necessary.

4. What colour is the blood of your period?
During menstruation our body eliminates part of the endometrium amongst blood. The colour of these secretions varies from brown to deep red. You get brown colour in the beginning or the end of the period. Congealed tissue indicates a large amount of blood. If this happens quite often it would be a good idea to consult your doctor.

5. Is there a chance I get pregnant during my menstruation?
It is rare case, but not impossible, especially if your cycle is very short (ex.21 days), or if your cycle is irregular. In any case, for a young girl to refrain from an unwanted pregnancy and from sexually transmitted diseases, she should only have sex using condoms.

6. Is it ok to be physically active during the menstruation cycle?
Of course it is! Menstruation does not impose that you stay locked up in your room, unless you don't feel well. Stick to your everyday schedule as if nothing has changed!

7. Is it alright to shower during menstruation?
Yes, a daily shower is necessary to cleanse the genital area from blood and various secretions. Furthermore, as the woman has the tendency to sweat easier during these days, showering is essential for hygiene and psychological reasons.

8. Why do my breasts get swollen and feel painful just before my period?
On the 2nd half of the cycle until the 1st day of the period, levels of female hormones estrogen and progesterone rise in the blood, causing fluid retention throughout the body, especially in breasts. The level of discomfort varies from woman to woman, but it is a normal response. Common analgesics (such as paracetamol), avoidance of caffeine, while supporting the breasts with a comforting bra, help considerably.

9. Is it essential to self-examine breasts after menstruation?
Every woman should self-examine her breasts a few days after her period has ended to determine any possible tumor. Don't forget that knowledge is the key answer to our fears!

10. What should I do to avoid "accidents" during menstruation?
All you have to do is choose the right napkin! It is very important to find the right size and type of napkin that fits you best, according to your flow, your period, even your body type. Also, every day of your cycle is not the same ...The difficult days with heavy flow, are the 1st, 2nd and 3rd day; after the 4th, usually the flow is reduced ... Do not worry! EveryDay offers a wide range of sanitary napkins, varying in types and sizes, specifically designed to best fit your needs.