When you’re filling out paperwork at your local gynecologist’s office, one of the questions is usually: When was the first day of your last menstrual cycle?
Some women stare blankly at the sheet, completely clueless, and some know exactly what to write. If you’re in the completely clueless group, keep reading…
Tracking your period can be useful for a lot of reasons. Many women track when trying to get pregnant, but it can also help with avoiding pregnancy, alert you to possible problems, and help you plan for events like vacations and trips to the waterpark.
Dr. Marjan Attaran, OB/GYN at Cleveland Clinic, tells Everyday Health:
“I tell patients the best way to keep track of menstruation is to mark the first day of the period on a calendar. At the time of their gynecology appointment they can then count from the beginning of the one period to the next to figure out their cycle lengths.”
A normal cycle lasts between 28 and 35 days. Once you’ve tracked your period for several months, you will be able to determine the length of your cycle.
Continue reading about how to track your cycles here.