Using the calendar to determine when a menstrual period will start isn't always the best approach. Since average menstrual cycle lengths can vary from month to month, paying attention to physical signs that signal the start of a menstrual period may be useful. While the specific signs can vary depending upon the individual woman, there are a few common signs that indicate a menstrual period has begun.
Bleeding
Bleeding from the vagina is the primary sign of the start of a menstrual period, explains the National Institute of Health. Menstrual blood is a mixture of blood and tissue from the uterus. It is usually bright red in color, but also may be dark red or brown. Menstruation usually lasts between three to five days, although it can last as long as seven days.The bleeding will require the use of tampons or sanitary pads, but using more than 10 pads or tampons per day or soaking through a tampon or pad every hour is considered excessive and should be reported to a doctor.
Cramping
Cramping, which includes tightness and pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, is also a sign common right before or during the beginning of menstruation. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that menstrual cramps are generally the worst for the first few years a girl begins menstruation, but ease up later on in life, particularly after childbirth. Although mild cramping is normal and even expected, any severe cramping should be checked out by a doctor to rule out a potential medical condition.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms can also occur before or during the beginning of menstruation. These are caused by the fluctuation in hormones that occur in a woman's body right before she is about to have her period. Moodiness, trouble sleeping, food cravings, bloating and breast tenderness are all signs that menstruation may be getting ready to start, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
