Your health, your choices
Information navigation
Main navigation
Services explained
See what the NHS offers
Choose the right service
Share:
Save:
Subscribe:
Print:
Find out what happens when in the menstrual cycle, including ovulation, periods and the fertile time.
Treatments for period problems, including painful, missing or heavy periods, ovulation pain, and PMS.
How to recognise when you're likely to be fertile during your menstrual cycle to help you plan or avoid pregnancy.
Tips for parents on when to talk to girls (and boys) about periods, and what to tell them.
Find out why your periods haven't started, including when to see your GP and the possible causes and treatments.
Mum-of-two Michelle Middleton talks about her symptoms and treatment of endometriosis.
Menstrual changes that need a check-up, such as bleeding between periods, after sex or after the menopause.
Johanna was 17 when doctors told her she had suffered premature ovarian failure.
Answers to questions about girls' bodies, including puberty and sex, vaginal discharge, and pregnancy.
This animation explains in detail how the menstrual cycle works.
Media last reviewed: 21/02/2025
Next review due: 21/10/2024
Find addresses, phone numbers and websites for services near you
Services Sexual health information and support Pharmacy Maternity service GP Pregnancy termination
Location
Looking for other services? View services A-Z
Articles about puberty, including the stages of puberty in boys and girls, tips to help parents prepare their children and common Q&As;
Find out about the treatments and support available if you have fertility problems
Find out about HRT, early menopause, supporting your partner and how to deal with symptoms
Your health, your choicesYour health, your choices