Plain-English guides

Clear answers to common questions, with the sources listed so that you can check them.

• Why is my period blood brown?Brown period blood is usually older blood that took longer to leave your body. Here's why it happens, what other colours mean, and when to get it checked.
• Spotting before your periodSpotting before a period is often linked to hormones or contraception, and sometimes implantation. Learn the common causes and when you should get it checked.
• Discharge before your periodWhite or sticky discharge before a period is usually normal. Learn what changes to expect through your cycle, and the signs of infection that need checking.
• What helps with period cramps?Heat, gentle movement and the right painkillers can all ease period cramps. Here's what to try first, what a GP can offer, and when pain needs checking.
• Period symptoms, from PMS to your last dayBloating, sore breasts, mood swings and cramps are common. Learn which period symptoms come when, what helps, and which symptoms are worth seeing a doctor about.
• The period cycle and its four phasesYour period cycle has four phases - menstrual, follicular, ovulation and luteal. See what happens in each, how long a normal cycle is, and how to measure yours.
• Period cups, an honest guideHow period cups work, how long you can wear one, what to know about safety and toxic shock syndrome, and who they suit. An unsponsored guide with no brand picks.
• Period panties, an honest guideHow period panties work, how long to wear them, how to wash them, and what to check about PFAS before buying. An unsponsored guide with no brand recommendations.
• Period swimwear, an honest guideWhat period swimwear is, how it works, what's known about its limits, and how to test it before you swim. An unsponsored guide with no brand recommendations.

Looking for a different kind of period? Refractory period and Edo period