ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is a pretty special thing that happens to people with vaginas to prepare their bodies to potentially have a baby. Each month, the uterus lining gets thicker and thicker, like a cozy blanket, just in case a fertilized egg finds its way into the uterus.

If the egg isn’t fertilized, then the uterus lining starts to break down and that’s when people have their period. The old uterus lining, blood and tissue come out of the vagina and we use pads, tampons or menstrual cups to catch it.

The menstrual cycle usually lasts around 28 days, but it can be different for everyone. Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, play a big role in regulating this cycle. They help the ovaries release an egg each month and also control the thickness of the uterus lining.

Having a period can be uncomfortable for some people, but it’s also a sign that the body is doing its job and keeping things in balance. It’s important to take care of your body during your period by staying hydrated, resting and using products that work for you.