How to Determine My Next Period

Your menstrual period is a natural body functions that occurs in a woman's body. It occurs on a regular cycle that starts about two weeks before your period, when the thick lining of your uterus begins to pass from your body, if your egg is unfertilized. The result is a thick, bloody flow that leaves your body through your vagina. You can expect a number of symptoms during this period, including cramps, an increase in your body temperature and the release of blood. You can chart your periods and know when to expect these symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Calendar

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Instructions

• 1

  Keep a calendar in a convenient place and use it to chart your periods. Mark when your period starts and how many days it lasts. Do this for a few months, until you have enough information about your period cycle. Remember that every woman's body is different and your period cycle is unique to your body. For instance, the average time between the first day of one period until the first day of another period is 28 days, but this can range from 21 days to 35 days. Similarly, the average time of a period is between three and five days, but this can range from two to seven days.

• 2

  Write your average length between periods and the average length of your periods on your calendar. Starting at the first day of your last period, count a number of days on your calendar equal to your average length between periods. Mark this day on your calendar as the day you can expect to begin your next period.

• 3

  Start at the first day of your next period and count a number of days equal to the average length of your period. Make another mark on your calendar on this day to mark the day when you can expect for your period to end.

• 4

  Make another mark on your calendar when your period actually begins and another when your next period actually ends. Repeat the process and predict your next period. Update your calendar regularly and keep the information current. Make additional notes about any irregularities that you notice, such as additional pain, an increase in your blood flow or even the lack of a period. Take your calendar with you to your next gynecological appointment and show it to your doctor.