How do you know the next time you get your period?

Answer 1

You determine when your period is due based on your average menstrual cycle length - the number of days between your periods. The average menstrual cycle length is 28 days so if you're new to menstruation it's best to just assume your period will start roughly the same time every month - although irregular cycles are normal at first, so don't worry if your period doesn't show up every month.

Once you've had your periods for a while you can determine your own average menstrual cycle - count the days between your periods, this is one cycle, then figure out the average of your last 6 cycles by adding all these days together then deviding by 6. Cycles change all the time so you may have to re-calculate this sometimes, or you can use various web sites or applications to calculate this for you.

Many women use something called Fertility Awareness Method to keep track of their periods, with this method you record your basal body temperature, cervical changes, cervical mucus, and other bodily changes to determine exactly where you are in your menstrual cycle. Figuring out your average menstrual cycle length just gives you a rough estimate of when your period is due, where as FAM tells you exactly when it is due.

You can also tell when your periods are due based on changes happening to your body - your body will change in many ways throughout your menstrual cycles; physically, emotionally, and mentally. This effects every woman a little differently so there may be signs unique to you, but all women will experience some of the same symptoms - for example cramps, breast swelling, and changes to your discharge. For example around 2-3 weeks before your period you will get clear stretchy wet discharge like egg-whites, from then up until menstruation discharge will then get thicker and more lotion-like.

It's best when you're young to just make sure you always carry supplies with you, periods can be irregular up until adulthood so until your cycles are regular and predictable it's best to always be prepared. Pay attention to your body, changes throughout your menstrual cycles will tell you when your periods are due.