Understanding everything about the different period flows

Menstruation is a natural phenomenon for people with a uterus. However, its functioning still raises many questions. It's common to wonder about the "normality" of one's flow. From light spotting to heavier flow, the variability is immense and depends on both internal and external factors. In this article, we reveal everything about menstrual flow . From the causes that influence menstrual flow to preconceived notions, they will no longer hold any secrets for you. Enjoy!

A quick reminder about the different types of menstrual flow

The so-called “light” flow

A light flow is a flow that results in an amount of bleeding that remains less than 30 milliliters over the entire duration of menstruation . This low amount of blood often manifests itself as light or pinkish discharge , or even small, discreet spots. This type of flow does not generally require the use of highly absorbent sanitary protection. Pantyliners or low-capacity tampons are often sufficient to manage this level of bleeding.

The so-called “medium” flow

Average flow is characterized by a quantity of bleeding that is generally between 30 and 50 milliliters over the entire menstrual period. This intensity of bleeding generally does not pose any significant problem for managing this bleeding. The color of the discharge can vary from bright red to brown, depending on the day of the cycle.

We recommend so-called "classic" protection, such as organic sanitary napkins or organic tampons. For a more modern form of menstrual protection, there's the menstrual cup , which is perfect for managing this type of flow.

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The so-called “abundant” flow

Finally, heavy flow, sometimes referred to as menorrhagia , is characterized by a significantly higher amount of bleeding than the types of flow discussed above. This type of flow results in bleeding exceeding 80 milliliters over the entire menstrual period. Menstruating people who have a heavy flow may also sometimes experience blood clots, which can vary in size and thus make periods thicker . This heavy bleeding often requires more effective sanitary protection, such as tampons, ultra-absorbent pads, or menstrual panties for heavy flow , and may require more frequent changes to avoid overflow.

I'm discovering all your invisible menstrual panties >

👉 Menorrhagia can have several causes, ranging from hormonal imbalances to medical conditions such as fibroids or bleeding disorders. Sometimes, the flow can be so heavy that it can affect our daily lives. If you experience abnormally heavy flow or have concerns about the amount of bleeding, it is imperative to consult a gynecologist or other healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical issues.

Also read: Which sanitary protection should you choose?

Spotting

Spotting refers to light bleeding that occurs between periods . Unlike regular periods, spotting often appears as small spots or light discharge, hence the name. The color can range from pale pink to dark brown, depending on the duration and cause of the bleeding. Spotting can sometimes be surprising or worrying, but it is quite common and can be influenced by various factors such as hormonal fluctuations, taking certain medications like the contraceptive pill, or even stress.

👉However, if spotting is frequent or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to ensure there is no underlying problem.

What is a “normal” period flow?

When talking about "normal menstrual flow," it's important to approach the topic with caution, as what's considered "normal" can vary greatly from woman to woman . This is because every menstruating person is unique, and what's typical for one person may not be typical for another.

That said, when we talk about a “normal” menstrual flow, we refer to the amount and duration of menstrual bleeding that is considered average for the majority of menstruating people of reproductive age. This flow generally lasts between 3 and 7 days, with a total blood loss estimated at between 30 and 50 milliliters over the entire menstrual cycle.

To give you an idea:

• Panty liners are designed for very light losses, and can hold 1 to 3 ml.
• Regarding tampons, “regular” tampons absorb about 5 ml, “super” tampons absorb 9 to 12 ml and “super plus” tampons can absorb 12 to 15 ml.
• Sanitary towels can absorb from 5 to 7 ml for “regular” ones, from 9 to 12 ml for “super” ones and up to 15 ml or more for “Night/maxi” ones.

Based on a total loss of 30 to 50 milliliters over the entire menstrual cycle, a woman could therefore use:

• 6 to 10 regular tampons, or
• 3 to 5 super stamps, or
• 2 to 4 super plus tampons, or
• 6 to 10 regular sanitary napkins, or
• 3 to 5 super sanitary napkins, or
• 2 to 3 night/max sanitary napkins.

Flows vary during the same menstrual phase

In this section, we explore variations in menstrual flow within a single menstrual phase . It's important to remember, however, that every woman is unique: the consistency, cycle length, and bleeding intensity vary from person to person. There is no "typical" cycle or flow, but rather a generality or observed average. So, if your flow differs from this average, it doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem with your menstruation.

Start of menstrual phase (usually days 1-2):

• Onset (Day 1): The flow may begin quite discreetly, often with spotting or light spotting. For some women, however, it may be immediately heavy on the first day.
• Midday (Day 2): Often, this day sees a more consistent and sometimes heavy flow. For many women, the first few days of their period are when the flow is heaviest, sometimes with the presence of clots.

Mid-menstrual phase (usually days 3-4):

At this stage, although some women continue to have a heavy flow, for the majority, the flow usually begins to decrease. The blood may change from bright red to darker red or brown, a sign that the bleeding is becoming less intense.

End of menstrual phase (usually days 5-7):

The flow of menstruation continues to decrease and usually becomes light or very light. The blood may be brown or even pink in color, indicating the end of bleeding. For some menstruators, their period may last less and end on day 4 or 5, while for others, it may stretch to day 6, 7, or even beyond.

Factors that influence menstrual flow:

There are also many factors that can alter the flow of periods.

Age:

One of the main reasons that influences menstrual flow is age . In fact, from our first period to menopause , these undergo changes depending on our cycles.

• Adolescence: When menstruation begins, cycles may be irregular for a few years. Hormone levels still fluctuate, which can lead to heavy or light flows.
• Perimenopause : As women approach menopause, their cycles may become irregular and flow may vary considerably.

Hormones:

The menstrual cycle is primarily regulated by hormones , and any imbalance in these hormones can affect menstrual flow. For example, estrogen promotes the development of the endometrium, and an imbalance can alter menstrual flow. Progesterone, on the other hand, prepares the endometrium for possible implantation, and an imbalance in this can lead to irregular periods . There are also LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) that help regulate ovulation and hormone production; their imbalance, as in PCOS, can therefore disrupt the cycle.

Contraception:

Contraceptives, especially hormonal contraceptives, can also affect menstrual flow because they alter the body's natural hormonal balance, which directly affects the menstrual cycle. Let's take a closer look:

• Combined oral contraceptives (pills containing both estrogen and progesterone): Combined oral contraceptives, which contain both estrogen and progesterone, are commonly used. However, they alter the body's natural hormonal balance. First, they effectively suppress ovulation, preventing the release of a mature egg ready for fertilization. Second, they affect the consistency of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, making it thinner. This can, in turn, lead to lighter and shorter periods.
• Progestin-only contraceptives (such as the progestin-only pill, implant, or progestin-only intrauterine device) : Contraceptives such as the progestin-only pill, implant, or progestin-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) ( "progestin" refers to a class of medications that mimic the action of progesterone ), are alternatives to combined methods containing estrogen. These contraceptives work primarily by influencing the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. They thin this lining, which can, in some cases, significantly reduce menstrual flow or even stop periods altogether.
• Copper intrauterine device (IUD) : The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a non-hormonal contraceptive method distinguished by its longevity and effectiveness. Placed inside the uterus, this small "T"-shaped device continuously releases copper ions that are toxic to sperm, thus preventing fertilization. Unlike other contraceptive devices or pills, the copper IUD does not introduce any hormones. However, a notable consequence of its use is changes in menstrual periods. Many users report an increase in the amount of bleeding as well as a prolongation of its duration. In addition, some women may experience more intense or more frequent menstrual cramps after insertion of the device.

Pregnancy and childbirth:

Pregnancy and childbirth are major events in a woman's reproductive life and can lead to significant physiological and hormonal changes that also influence menstrual flow. For example, postpartum hormonal changes, coupled with cervical dilation during vaginal delivery, can alter flow. There are also changes in the endometrium and possible trauma or scarring due to childbirth that can also influence bleeding. To this, we can add breastfeeding, which can delay or modify menstruation by suppressing ovulation. We can also mention childbirth, which can delay the return of menstruation. Finally, the stress of motherhood can also play a role in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Stress:

Indeed, stress can also influence menstrual flow by disrupting the body's hormonal balance , notably by releasing cortisol, which can alter the sex hormones that regulate the cycle. This disruption can inhibit ovulation, leading to irregular cycles. In addition, stress changes the thickness of the endometrium, which affects the nature of the flow. Activation of the nervous system due to stress can also impact blood circulation to the reproductive organs, thus impacting flow. And stress-induced behaviors, such as poor eating habits or lack of sleep, can also influence the cycle.

Weight:

Another reason that can be cited is weight. It can interfere with the body's hormonal balance. Adipose tissue produces and stores hormones, including estrogen; therefore, an excess or lack of fat can disrupt this process. Extreme weight, too high or too low, can affect ovulation, making cycles irregular or non-existent. Obesity can be mentioned, which increases the risk of insulin resistance, often linked to polycystic ovarian syndrome, thus affecting the cycle. Conversely, low weight can indicate malnutrition, affecting hormone production, which can cause amenorrhea . Finally, physical stress due to an inappropriate weight can also disrupt the menstrual cycle.

Food:

Malnutrition, whether due to undernutrition or eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, can interrupt periods due to decreased body fat and hormonal imbalances. Also, an unbalanced diet can disrupt hormone levels, affect body weight, lead to nutritional deficiencies, and impact ovulation and menstrual flow.

Physical exercise:

Intense physical exercise, on the other hand, can disrupt the menstrual cycle in several ways. It affects hormonal balance, can reduce body fat to the point of affecting menstruation, and can cause physical stress that can delay or inhibit ovulation. Additionally, if the body's energy consumption isn't enough to cover its energy expenditure, it may suspend functions like menstruation to conserve energy.

Medical conditions:

Certain medical conditions can affect menstrual flow . Here are some examples:

• Uterine fibroids: Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that develop from the muscular wall of the uterus. This can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain, or a feeling of heaviness in some people. Excessive bleeding caused by fibroids can also lead to anemia.
• Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which cells similar to those in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grow outside of it, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissue. These endometrial lesions can cause extremely painful periods, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms such as pain during intercourse. Over time, endometriosis can also lead to fertility problems.
• Thyroid disease: The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, produces hormones that regulate many body functions, including metabolism. Hormonal imbalance due to hyperthyroidism (excessive production of thyroid hormones) or hypothyroidism (insufficient production) can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Thus, women with thyroid disorders may experience changes in the regularity, duration, and abundance of their menstrual periods. Medical supervision is essential to manage these conditions and minimize their effects on menstruation.

👉 If you are prone to pain during your period, we have natural solutions that will bring you comfort and relief. For mild pain, we recommend the super herbal tea from The French Herborist, formulated especially for period pain. For acute pain , CBD Équilibre oil , which has helped many women with endometriosis, combined with Nidéco massage oil, will work wonders. And finally, in times when the pain becomes almost disabling, we offer the Bluetens medical device , a powerful ally that uses electrostimulation to naturally and instantly relieve your aches and pains.

Medications and treatments:

Medications and treatments can affect menstruation in various ways. Some interfere with hormone levels, altering the cycle. Others can affect clotting, increasing or decreasing bleeding. For example, chemotherapy can disrupt ovarian function, and aspirin can increase bleeding.

Our natural treatments for painful periods >

When does menstrual flow become worrying and what should I do?

If you're worried about your menstrual flow, the symptoms we'll discuss below may be a reason to seek professional help, if only for reassurance.

Extremely heavy flow:

If you need to change your sanitary protection every hour, or if your period lasts more than 7 days.

Very light or absent flow:

Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) can be normal in certain situations, such as during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but it can also signal other underlying problems.

Painful periods:

If the pain is so severe that it interferes with your daily activities despite painkillers, or if symptoms worsen over time.

Irregular periods:

If your cycle is often irregular, or if it changes suddenly.

Bleeding between periods:

Bleeding that is not related to your period and is not typical for you.

Other unusual symptoms:

Such as large blood clots, symptoms of fatigue (which could signal anemia due to excessive blood loss), or any other symptoms that concern you.

Menstrual flow can vary throughout a lifetime for various reasons, but it can also vary within a single cycle. This isn't necessarily alarming and doesn't necessarily mean you have a health problem. However, if you experience unusual or concerning symptoms, it's recommended to consult a doctor.