When it comes to period flow, how do we really know what is normal? It’s hard to tell just how much it is, and it’s easy to spin out and think something may be wrong with us. We’re here to tell you—you’re probably very much, most likely, absolutely and completely, totally fine.
Actually, Poosh’s resident expert gyno, Dr. Heather Bartos, is here to tell us that. She’s got the details:
“Although it seems like you could part your own Red Sea during your cycle or you’re literally surfing the crimson wave (thank you, culture, for such a lovely view on menstruation), the normal amount we bleed each month is relatively paltry in comparison.
“The typical menstrual bleed lasts four to five days, and the ‘usual’ blood loss is about two to three tablespoons or about 30 milliliters. (Pro tip, don’t use the same kitchen utensils to measure out your collagen powder as your period blood).
“If a uterus owner loses more than 80 milliliters (five tbsp) or one-third of a cup, that’s not typical and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. But since you’re probably NOT getting out your Pyrex measuring glass to do so, think about it like this: If you’re changing out your tampon every one to two hours (or if any of the words in front of your tampon size could also describe a Marvel character—plus, super, ultra, mega, epic), that’s not typical and should be evaluated.
“Menstrual bleeding tends to be heaviest in the first two days. When your period is at its heaviest, the blood will be a beautiful crimson red (seriously, it’s a great nail color). On lighter days, it may be pinkish or brown. An occasional light or heavy period is not troublesome, but if your norm is pushing two to three menstrual cups every two hours, please get seen. But don’t actually use more than one, for real!”
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