Trying to Conceive Community

When thinking about conceiving, it is important to evaluate your menstrual cycles. If you have used contraception for a long time, you may not know what your cycles are actually like. Having regular or predictable periods on birth control does not mean your periods will continue to be regular once you stop using it.

But what does "regular" and "irregular" mean in terms of your menstrual cycle?

"Regular" Menstrual Cycles
The length of your menstrual cycle is the time between the first day of bleeding during one period to the first day of bleeding during your next period. In general, we consider a "normal" cycle length to be between 24 to 35 days. For most women, it is normal to have bleeding from 2 to 7 days. Also important in this equation are the associated symptoms. These menstrual symptoms, called "molimina", include breast tenderness, abdominal cramping, and a thin vaginal discharge that usually occurs mid-cycle.

It is not uncommon for teenagers and women in their 40s and up to see some abnormal or unexpected changes in their cycles.

A "regular" menstrual cycle usually indicates ovulation.

"Irregular" Menstrual Cycles
Cycles that fall outside of the aforementioned range -- or that vary from one cycle to next by 10 days or more -- are considered irregular and are most likely anovulatory, or indicative of a woman's lack of ovulation.

It's helpful to mark a calendar for the days you menstruate. After a few months, you will be able to recognize whether your period is regular or not. I encourage women who have irregular menses to consult with their health care provider, especially when trying to conceive.