How to Count Days for Menstral Cycles
Many women wonder how to accurately chart their menstrual cycle. Some are confused about which day will be the actual start date, and others are confused as to when the period will end. While bleeding is the sign of a period, the whole cycle is much longer than just the five to seven days of bleeding. Here is a step-by-step guide to how to count days for your menstrual cycle.
Instructions
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Mark the first day of your period on the calendar. Note any symptoms on the calendar associated with your period as well.
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Note each day of your period on the calendar, along with notations of any symptoms, such as cramping and back aches. Also note the flow, from light to heavy.
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Note the start date of your next period on the calendar. The days in your cycle are counted from Day 1 of the first period to Day 1 of the second period. The average number of days between periods is 28 full days, although the range is from 24 to 33.
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Tips & Warnings
Tracking your period is a good way to alert your doctor to any changes in your cycle that might need checking. Noting symptoms, especially, will help you notice if you are experiencing heavier cramping or bleeding from month to month.
Counting the days between periods will help you to predict the start date of your next period. However, changes in your lifestyle, such as fluctuations in weight or exercise, may alter your start date. The cycle is merely a guide, and your period can start at any point, depending on when your body ovulates.
