A menstrual health glossary explains the words used to describe periods, reproductive anatomy, cycle phases, pelvic health conditions and period care products. Use this A–Z guide to look up a term, understand what it means and find reliable next steps.
Periods and bodies vary. These definitions provide general education rather than a way to diagnose symptoms. If bleeding, pain or another change concerns you, speak with a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
Jump to a letter: A · B · C · D · E · F · G · H · I · K · L · M · O · P · R · S · T · U · V · W · Y · Z
A
Abdominal cramps
Cramping or aching in the lower abdomen during menstruation, often caused by prostaglandin-driven uterine contractions. Period pain that is severe, worsening or interfering with everyday life deserves medical assessment. Read about ways to manage period pain.
Adenomyosis
A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining is found within the muscular wall of the uterus. It may cause heavy bleeding, painful periods, pelvic pain or pressure. Learn more about adenomyosis symptoms and diagnosis.
Amenorrhoea
The absence of menstrual periods. Primary amenorrhoea describes periods that haven't started by the expected age, while secondary amenorrhoea means previously occurring periods have stopped. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, medicines, hormonal changes and health conditions are among possible causes. See a doctor if periods haven't started by age 16 or previously regular periods have stopped for 3 months or more and you don't know why. Learn more about the causes of absent periods or see our guide to the menstrual cycle.
Anovulatory cycle
A cycle in which ovulation doesn't occur. Bleeding may still happen, but it isn't necessarily the same hormonal process as a period following ovulation. Learn more about what anovulation means, including its causes, signs, and how it can affect pregnancy.
Applicator tampon
A tampon inserted using a cardboard or plastic applicator rather than a finger. Follow the product instructions, choose the lowest absorbency that suits your flow and change it at the recommended intervals. Read our guide to tampon sizes.
Asherman's syndrome
Scar tissue inside the uterus, sometimes developing after uterine surgery, procedures or infection. It may be associated with lighter or absent periods, pelvic pain or fertility difficulties.
B
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
A change in the usual balance of vaginal bacteria. BV may cause thin vaginal discharge or a noticeable fishy odour, although some people have no symptoms. Similar symptoms can have other causes, so assessment is useful if you're unsure. Avoid douching, which can disturb the vaginal environment. Read about vaginal discharge and vaginal douching.
Basal body temperature (BBT)
Your body temperature measured at complete rest, usually immediately after waking. A sustained temperature rise may help confirm that ovulation has already occurred, but BBT alone can't reliably predict ovulation in advance. Record your cycle with our downloadable period tracker.
Breakthrough bleeding
Bleeding or spotting outside an expected bleed, often used to describe bleeding while using hormonal contraception. Persistent, new or unexplained bleeding should be assessed. Read what spotting between periods can mean.
C
Cervical mucus
Fluid produced by the cervix. It often becomes clearer, wetter, slippery or stretchy around the fertile window, although patterns vary between people and cycles.
Cervical position
The position of the cervix within the vaginal canal. Its height and angle can vary between people and at different points in the menstrual cycle. Learn how to measure your cervical position.
Cervix
The lower part of the uterus that extends into the top of the vagina.
Cervix height
The distance between the vaginal opening and cervix. Cervix height can be useful when choosing the length of a menstrual cup and considering how easily you'll be able to reach it for removal.
Clitoris
An erectile organ primarily associated with sexual pleasure. The visible clitoral glans is only a small part of the larger internal structure.
Cloth pad
A washable fabric pad worn in underwear to absorb menstrual blood. Materials, absorbency and washing instructions vary. Read our cloth pad care guide or browse cloth pads and liners.
Clots (menstrual clots)
Clumps of blood and tissue that may appear during menstruation. Small clots can occur during heavier flow. Repeated large clots or bleeding that is very heavy or affects everyday life should be discussed with a doctor. Read how much period bleeding is typical.
Colposcopy
A closer examination of the cervix using magnification, usually recommended after particular cervical screening results or when certain symptoms need further investigation. A small tissue sample called a biopsy may sometimes be taken. Read about cervical screening.
Contraception
Methods used to reduce the chance of pregnancy. Options differ in effectiveness, suitability, side effects and how they may affect menstrual bleeding. Most contraceptive methods don't protect against sexually transmitted infections. See our guide to contraception options in Australia.
Corpus luteum
A temporary structure that forms in an ovary after ovulation and produces progesterone during the luteal phase.
Cycle length
The number of days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. Adult menstrual cycles commonly range from 21 to 35 days. Cycles are often irregular during the first few years after periods begin and may also change during perimenopause. Track yours with our downloadable period tracker.
Cycle syncing
Adjusting exercise, food, work or other routines according to perceived menstrual cycle phases. Tracking your individual symptoms can be useful, but current research doesn't support universal rules about how everyone should exercise, eat or work during each phase.
Cystocele
A type of pelvic organ prolapse where the bladder moves towards or bulges into the front wall of the vagina. Read our pelvic organ prolapse guide.
D
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB)
An older medical term for abnormal uterine bleeding without an obvious structural cause. Clinicians now generally use abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) and classify possible causes more specifically.
E
Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnancy that implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy can't continue normally and can cause serious internal bleeding. Seek urgent medical assessment if pregnancy is possible and you develop significant pelvic or abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or fainting. Call 000 if symptoms are severe or you feel seriously unwell.
Endometrial Polyp (Uterine Polyp)
A growth arising from the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). Endometrial polyps are usually benign and may cause spotting between periods, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, or sometimes no symptoms at all. Learn more about uterine polyps and irregular bleeding, including their symptoms, causes and treatment options.
Endometriosis
A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. Symptoms can include pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during sex and fertility difficulties, but experiences vary considerably. Read our endometriosis guide.
Endometrium
The tissue lining the inside of the uterus. It changes throughout the menstrual cycle and sheds as menstrual bleeding when pregnancy hasn't occurred.
Exercise and the menstrual cycle
Exercise is generally possible during menstruation if you feel comfortable doing it. Evidence doesn't support rigid exercise prescriptions for every phase of the menstrual cycle, so adapt activity to your symptoms, preferences and health. See our guide to working out during your period.
F
Fallopian tubes
Tubes connecting the ovaries and uterus. After ovulation, an egg travels into a fallopian tube, which is where fertilisation most commonly occurs.
Fertile window
The days of the menstrual cycle when pregnancy is most likely. It generally includes the approximately 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation because sperm can survive for several days inside the reproductive tract.
Fertility awareness methods
Methods that use signs such as cervical mucus, basal body temperature and cycle timing to identify fertile and less fertile days. Effectiveness depends on the method, correct use and appropriate training. A simple period-tracking app shouldn't be relied on as contraception.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps stimulate ovarian follicles to develop.
Follicular phase
The ovarian-cycle phase beginning on the first day of menstruation and ending at ovulation. Its length can vary between people and cycles. Read about the follicular phase.
G
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
A term covering vaginal, vulval and urinary changes associated with lower oestrogen levels around and after menopause. Symptoms can include dryness, irritation, pain during sex, urinary urgency and recurring urinary tract infections. Learn more about genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), including its symptoms, causes and treatment options. You can also read our guide to vaginal dryness.
H
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Menstrual bleeding that interferes with physical, emotional, social or everyday life. You don't need to measure an exact amount of blood before asking for help. Signs can include bleeding for more than 8 days, needing to change products every 1 to 2 hours, bleeding through clothing or bedding or passing large clots. See a doctor if your bleeding is heavier than usual or affects your life. Seek urgent care for suddenly very heavy bleeding or heavy bleeding with dizziness or weakness. Read how much period bleeding is typical.
Hormones
Chemical messengers that travel through the body and influence many processes. Oestrogen, progesterone, FSH and LH are among the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.
HPV (human papillomavirus)
A large group of viruses spread mainly through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most HPV infections clear without treatment, but persistent infection with some higher-risk types can cause cervical cell changes and cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is available in Australia and cervical screening is still recommended for eligible people who have been vaccinated. Read about cervical screening and self-collection.
Hypertonic pelvic floor
Pelvic floor muscles that remain overactive or have difficulty relaxing. Symptoms can include pelvic pain, painful penetration, urinary problems or difficulty emptying the bowel. More strengthening exercises aren't always appropriate. Read about the overactive pelvic floor.
I
Intrauterine device (IUD)
A small contraceptive device placed inside the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. Hormonal and copper IUDs affect menstrual bleeding differently. If you use an IUD and are considering a menstrual cup or disc, read our guide to using menstrual cups or discs with an IUD.
Irregular cycles
Menstrual cycles where the timing, length or bleeding pattern varies. Some variation is expected, particularly during the first few years after periods begin and during perimenopause. Persistent changes or cycles that suddenly become different from your usual pattern are worth discussing with a doctor.
K
Kegel exercises
Exercises that involve contracting and fully relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. They can help some people with particular pelvic floor symptoms, but strengthening isn't appropriate for every condition and may make symptoms worse if the muscles are already overactive or painful. Read our pelvic floor and Kegel exercises guide.
L
Labia majora and labia minora
The outer and inner folds of the vulva. Labia naturally vary widely in size, shape, colour and symmetry. Read Is my vagina normal? for more about normal anatomical variation.
Lichen sclerosus
A chronic inflammatory skin condition that can affect the vulva. It can cause itching, soreness, white or fragile areas of skin and changes in vulval anatomy. It needs medical assessment and ongoing management.
Lochia
Bleeding and vaginal discharge after childbirth as the uterus recovers. The amount, colour and appearance change over time. Seek urgent medical care for very heavy bleeding, fainting or other concerning symptoms. Read about your first period after childbirth.
Lubricant (personal lubricant)
A product used to reduce friction during sexual activity or the insertion of some menstrual and pelvic health products. Check compatibility with condoms and the material of any device you're using. See our guide to choosing a personal lubricant.
Luteal phase
The phase between ovulation and the start of the next period. During this phase, the corpus luteum produces progesterone to support the uterine lining. Read about the luteal phase.
Luteal phase defect
A proposed explanation for some fertility difficulties involving the luteal phase or progesterone activity. Its definition, diagnosis and clinical importance remain debated.
Luteinising hormone (LH)
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland. A rise or surge in LH around the middle of the cycle helps trigger ovulation.
M
Menarche
The first menstrual period. It occurs at an average age of around 12 to 13, but a first period can occur from about age 9 to 16. Cycles are commonly irregular during the first few years. Read everything you need to know about getting your first period.
Menopause
The stage reached after 12 consecutive months without a period when there is no other reason for the bleeding to have stopped. Most people in Australia experience menopause between 45 and 55, with an average age of 51. Hormonal contraception and some health conditions can make determining menopause more complicated. Read our menopause guide.
Menorrhagia
An older term still sometimes used for heavy menstrual bleeding. Modern definitions focus less on a specific volume of blood and more on whether bleeding affects physical, emotional, social or everyday life.
Menstrual cup
A reusable period product inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood, usually positioned below the cervix. Cups vary in length, diameter, capacity, shape and firmness. Compare options in our menstrual cup comparison chart or browse menstrual cups.
Menstrual cycle
The recurring hormonal and reproductive changes associated with ovulation and menstruation. Cycle day 1 is the first day of menstrual bleeding. Read our comprehensive guide to the menstrual cycle.
Menstrual disc
A period product that collects menstrual blood high in the vagina, with its rim generally positioned behind the pubic bone and around the cervix. Discs don't rely on the same type of positioning as cups and fit depends partly on diameter and anatomy. See our menstrual disc comparison chart or browse menstrual discs.
Menstrual phase
The days when the uterine lining sheds and menstrual bleeding occurs. This marks the beginning of a new menstrual cycle. Read about the menstrual phase.
Menstrual sponge
A sponge-shaped period product worn inside the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. Products may be natural, synthetic, reusable or single-use and their cleaning, wear-time and sex-compatibility instructions differ. See our menstrual sponge comparison chart.
Mittelschmerz
A German term meaning “middle pain”, used for pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort that occurs around ovulation. New, severe or persistent pelvic pain should be medically assessed rather than assumed to be ovulation pain.
O
Oestrogen
A group of hormones involved in reproductive development, the menstrual cycle, vaginal and vulval tissues, bone health and other body systems.
Oligomenorrhoea
Infrequent menstrual periods, often used to describe adult menstrual cycles more than 35 days apart.
Ovarian cyst
A fluid-filled sac that develops in or on an ovary. Many ovarian cysts cause no symptoms and resolve without treatment, while others can cause pain or require monitoring or treatment.
Ovarian reserve
An estimate of the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. Tests such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can provide information useful in some fertility assessments and treatment planning, but ovarian reserve isn't the same as egg quality and doesn't directly predict whether someone can conceive naturally.
Ovaries
Reproductive organs containing follicles and eggs. The ovaries also produce hormones including oestrogen and progesterone.
Ovulation
The release of an egg from an ovary. Ovulation doesn't always happen on day 14 and its timing can change from one cycle to another. Read about the ovulatory phase.
P
Panty liner
A thin absorbent liner worn in underwear for light bleeding, spotting, discharge or backup protection.
Pap smear
The name of Australia's previous cervical screening test, which examined cervical cells. Australia now uses HPV-based Cervical Screening Tests for eligible people aged 25 to 74. Eligible people can choose a self-collected vaginal sample for HPV testing, although self-collection isn't appropriate in every situation, including when certain symptoms need diagnostic assessment. Read about self-collected cervical screening.
Pelvic floor
A group of muscles and supporting tissues at the base of the pelvis. They contribute to bladder and bowel control, sexual function and support of pelvic organs. See our pelvic floor guide.
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Difficulty with the strength, relaxation or coordination of the pelvic floor muscles. It can contribute to bladder or bowel symptoms, pelvic pain, prolapse symptoms or difficulty with penetration. Read about pelvic floor relaxation techniques.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
An infection affecting the upper reproductive organs, often caused when bacteria associated with infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea move upwards from the cervix. Symptoms can include pelvic pain, abnormal discharge, fever, bleeding or pain during sex. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications. Read our guide to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) symptoms.
Pelvic organ prolapse
Movement of one or more pelvic organs downwards towards or into the vagina because of reduced support from pelvic tissues. Symptoms and treatment depend on which organs are affected and how much the prolapse bothers you. Read our pelvic organ prolapse guide.
Perimenopause
The transition leading up to menopause. Hormone levels and menstrual patterns may change and symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep changes or vaginal dryness may occur. Read about vaginal health in perimenopause.
Perimenstrual spotting
Light bleeding that occurs shortly before or after the main menstrual bleed.
Perineum
The area of skin and underlying tissue between the vaginal opening and anus.
Period
Menstrual bleeding caused by shedding of the uterine lining. A typical period lasts around 3 to 7 days, although individual patterns vary.
Period pad
An absorbent product worn in underwear to collect menstrual blood. Pads may be disposable or reusable and are available in different sizes and absorbencies.
Period poverty
Difficulty accessing suitable period products, toilets, washing facilities, information or other resources needed to manage menstruation safely and with dignity. Read about period poverty and menstrual equity.
Period sex
Sexual activity during menstruation. Pregnancy and STI protection still need to be considered during a period, and menstrual products aren't contraception. Some discs and purpose-made single-use sponge products are designed to be worn during penetrative sex. Read our period sex guide.
Period underwear
Underwear containing absorbent and leak-resistant layers designed to manage menstrual blood or provide backup protection with another period product.
Pessary
A device placed in the vagina to support pelvic organs in some cases of pelvic organ prolapse. Pessaries come in different shapes and sizes and should usually be fitted and reviewed by a healthcare professional.
pH-balanced wash
A cleanser marketed as having a particular acidity. These products are intended for external use only and aren't needed to clean inside the vagina. The vagina maintains its own environment and douching isn't recommended. For the vulva, water is generally enough for routine hygiene. If you choose a cleanser, consider a mild fragrance-free product and stop using it if irritation develops.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
The former name for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a common long-term endocrine and metabolic condition that can affect ovulation, periods, fertility, skin, hair and metabolic health. The condition was officially renamed in May 2026. Diagnosis and treatment haven't changed, and both names are likely to be used while clinical guidelines and health information are updated.
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)
The name adopted in May 2026 for the condition previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The new name reflects the condition's broader hormonal and metabolic features rather than suggesting that ovarian cysts define it. See polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) above.
Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME)
Premenstrual exacerbation (PME) occurs when the symptoms of an existing physical or mental health condition become worse in the days or weeks leading up to a period. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, migraines and chronic pain may be affected by hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. PME involves symptoms that are present throughout the cycle but become more severe before a period. Learn more in our Guide to Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME).
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
A severe cyclical condition involving mood and other symptoms during the premenstrual phase. Symptoms significantly interfere with everyday life and require proper assessment rather than self-diagnosis. Read our PMDD guide.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
A group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur before a period and generally improve after bleeding begins. Symptoms and severity vary. Read about PMS.
Progesterone
A hormone produced mainly by the corpus luteum after ovulation. It helps prepare and maintain the uterine lining during the luteal phase.
R
Reusable menstrual products
Period products designed to be used repeatedly, including menstrual cups, reusable discs and cloth pads. Suitability depends on comfort, product care, access to cleaning facilities, anatomy and personal preference. See how to choose between a cup, disc or sponge or use our reusables cost-savings calculator.
S
Sexually transmitted infection (STI)
An infection that can be passed through sexual contact. Some STIs cause symptoms while others don't, which is why testing can be important. Prevention, testing and treatment depend on the infection and type of exposure.
Spotting
Light vaginal bleeding that occurs outside your usual period or around its beginning or end. New, persistent or unexplained spotting should be assessed. Read what spotting between periods can mean.
Steriliser for menstrual products
A device marketed for disinfecting or sanitising compatible reusable period products, commonly using steam or ultraviolet light. Methods and manufacturer instructions vary, and the word “steriliser” doesn't necessarily mean a consumer device achieves medical sterilisation. See our cup and disc steriliser comparison chart.
Suction seal
The contact or seal formed between a menstrual cup and the vaginal walls. You should release the seal according to the cup instructions before removing it rather than pulling firmly on the stem alone. If your cup is leaking, see why a menstrual cup may leak.
Swimming on your period
Swimming is generally possible during menstruation. Choose a period product that suits swimming and follow its instructions for use, changing and cleaning. Read our guide to swimming on your period.
Synthetic menstrual products
Period products containing manufactured fibres, elastomers, plastics or other synthetic materials. Material composition alone doesn't establish whether a product is safe or unsafe. Follow the product's instructions and stop using it if it causes irritation or another problem.
T
Tampon
An absorbent period product inserted into the vagina. Choose the lowest absorbency suitable for your flow. Healthdirect advises changing a tampon every 3 to 4 hours or when it's full and never leaving one in for more than 8 hours because of the risk of toxic shock syndrome. Read about tampon sizes.
Thrush (vaginal candidiasis)
A vaginal yeast infection that can cause itching, irritation, soreness and changes in discharge. Similar symptoms can be caused by other conditions, so recurrent or uncertain symptoms should be assessed rather than repeatedly assumed to be thrush. Read about vaginal discharge.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
A rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by certain bacteria. It has been associated with internal menstrual products including tampons and menstrual cups. Symptoms can include sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, confusion, muscle aches and a rash. Remove the menstrual product if possible and seek urgent medical attention if TSS is suspected. Call 000 if you are seriously unwell. Read our toxic shock syndrome guide.
U
Urinary incontinence
Involuntary leakage of urine. It can include leakage with coughing, lifting or exercise, leakage associated with a sudden urge to urinate or a combination of both. Assessment can help identify the cause and appropriate treatment. Read what to do about light bladder leakage.
Uterine fibroids
Non-cancerous growths made from uterine muscle and fibrous tissue. Some cause no symptoms while others may contribute to heavy periods, pelvic pressure, pain or fertility problems. Learn more about uterine fibroids and heavy bleeding
Uterus
A muscular pelvic organ. Its inner lining changes throughout the menstrual cycle and it can support a developing pregnancy. Read our guide to reproductive anatomy.
V
Vagina
The muscular canal between the cervix and vaginal opening. The vagina is internal and is different from the vulva, which describes the external genital structures.
Vaginal atrophy
An older term describing thinning, dryness and changes in vaginal tissue associated with lower oestrogen levels, particularly after menopause. These symptoms are now often discussed as part of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
Vaginal dilator
A smooth device available in graduated sizes and used as part of an individualised program for some people with penetration-related pain, pelvic floor muscle overactivity, vaginal narrowing or after particular medical treatments. Clinical guidance can help determine whether dilators are suitable and how to use them. Browse vaginal dilators.
Vaginal discharge
Fluid produced by the cervix and vagina that helps maintain the vaginal environment. Amount and consistency can change throughout the menstrual cycle. A new strong odour, itching, pain or a significant change from what is normal for you may need assessment. Read about vaginal discharge and how it changes.
Vaginal dryness
Reduced vaginal moisture or lubrication. It can be associated with lower oestrogen levels, medicines, breastfeeding, some health treatments and other factors. Read how to manage vaginal dryness.
Vaginal fornix
The recessed area around the cervix at the upper end of the vagina. This anatomy is relevant to how menstrual discs sit around the cervix.
Vaginal moisturiser
A product intended to provide ongoing vaginal moisture when used regularly according to its instructions. It differs from personal lubricant, which mainly reduces friction during sex or product insertion. Browse vaginal moisturisers.
Vaginismus
Involuntary pelvic floor muscle responses associated with pain, difficulty or inability to tolerate attempted vaginal penetration. Assessment and treatment should be individualised. Read about vaginismus.
Vulva
The external genital area, including the mons pubis, outer and inner labia, clitoral glans and hood, urethral opening and vaginal opening. Read about normal vulval variation.
Vulvodynia
Persistent vulval pain lasting at least 3 months without another identifiable cause such as infection or a skin condition. It may feel like burning, stinging, soreness or rawness and can affect sex, tampon use, sitting and everyday comfort. Treatment is individualised and may involve several healthcare professionals, including a pelvic health physiotherapist or pain specialist.
W
Water-based lubricant
A lubricant containing water as its main base, used to reduce friction during sex or insertion of some period and pelvic health products. Water-based formulas are generally compatible with latex condoms, but check the label and any device manufacturer's instructions. Browse water-based lubricants or read our lubricant guide.
Withdrawal bleeding
Bleeding caused by a drop in hormone levels during a scheduled break or inactive-tablet phase of some hormonal contraceptive methods. It isn't the same hormonal process as a spontaneous period following ovulation.
Y
Yeast infection
Another name commonly used for vaginal thrush or candidiasis. See thrush (vaginal candidiasis). Recurrent or uncertain symptoms should be medically assessed rather than automatically treated as thrush.
Z
Zinc oxide barrier cream
A topical barrier cream used on external skin to protect against moisture and friction. Use it only as directed and don't put external skin products inside the vagina unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional. Persistent vulval irritation should be assessed.
When to seek medical advice
Arrange medical advice if your periods become unusually heavy, painful, absent or noticeably different from your normal pattern, or if you experience bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause.
Seek urgent medical care for suddenly very heavy bleeding, heavy bleeding with dizziness or weakness, severe or sudden pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting or symptoms that could indicate toxic shock syndrome.
If pregnancy is possible and you have significant abdominal or pelvic pain with vaginal bleeding, dizziness, fainting or shoulder-tip pain, seek urgent assessment.
Call triple zero (000) if symptoms are severe or you feel seriously unwell. If you're unsure how urgently you need care, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day.
Where to go next
Explore Period Shop's Period Care and Pelvic Health Guides to learn more about your cycle, compare period products and find practical pelvic health information.
If you're choosing a period product, visit the Menstrual Products Comparison Hub.
Related blogs
- A comprehensive guide to the menstrual cycle
- A guide to female anatomy and the reproductive system
- Vaginal discharge: what is typical and how does it change?
- Are menstrual cups safe? What the science says
Sources and further reading
- healthdirect: Menstruation
- healthdirect: Irregular periods
- healthdirect: Heavy periods
- healthdirect: Menopause
- healthdirect: Polycystic ovarian syndrome / polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome
- Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Clinical Care Standard
- Australian Government: Self-collection for cervical screening
- Monash University: International evidence-based PMOS guideline
This glossary provides general educational information and isn't a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.