Your period is probably not your favorite monthly event—especially when it gets all weird on you. One month it's late, the next it's early; you're used to a flow lasting four days, then all of a sudden it sticks around for a full week. Cramps sideline you when you're caught without pain meds, but once you're stocked up on ibuprofen, you don't feel a twinge of discomfort.
Changes to your menstrual cycle like these are hard to predict and a major pain to deal with. But all we can say is, get used to them. Because as you get older, your period will keep adjusting and evolving.
Teens to 20s – The discovery of the monthly cycles. It’s not easy being a women. We have to deal with cramps, irregular cycles, side effects, new jobs, relationships, stress and contraception
30s - The next chapter of life...thinking about pregnancy! Women can still get pregnant after giving birth.The safest method is to use contraception. Your period will resume after breast feeding and you will need use to pads/diapers for 4-6 weeks for any extra leakage. Periods can be indicators of your health such as fibroids, benign uterine growths, and endometriosis.
40s – the beginning of perimenopause where ovulation becomes irregular and estrogen level fluctuates.
50s – menopause hits when you haven’t had your period for a year. You may experience hot flashes and drastic temperature changes with your body which can be solved with birth control pills to control hormonal levels.
Whatever your age, remember that your period offers a lot of insight into overall health. So if you experience any unusual symptoms, it's a good idea to check in with your doctor, says Dr. Ross. Highly irregular periods or drastic changes to your flow may be a sign of thyroid issues, polycystic ovarian syndrome, or a number of other (treatable) health concerns.