How long is a normal menstrual cycle?
For adults, a cycle anywhere from 21 to 35 days is usually considered normal, and a period typically lasts 2 to 7 days.
Counting your cycle
Day 1 is the first day of real bleeding (not spotting). The cycle ends the day before your next period starts.
Why it varies
- Stress, illness, travel and sleep changes
- Big changes in weight or exercise
- Starting or stopping hormonal contraception
- The years after your first period and before menopause
When to talk to a doctor
- Cycles shorter than 21 or longer than 35 days most of the time
- Periods lasting more than 7 days, or very heavy bleeding
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Missed periods when pregnancy is ruled out
Petal's doctor report summarises your cycle lengths and symptoms on one page.