What to Track on Your Period Calendar
- To get the most from your tracking, remember to note:
- The start and end dates of your period
- Symptoms such as cramps, mood swings, bloating, or breast tenderness
- Changes in vaginal discharge (color, texture, or amount)
- Any unexpected pain or spotting
After a few months, you’ll likely notice patterns, such as when PMS typically occurs or how long your cycles last. This helps you plan ahead for work, school, social events, or travel.
Tracking Changes Over Time
If you’ve been menstruating for a while, you’ll have an idea of your normal flow. Keep an eye out for:
- Variations in flow intensity (light or heavy)
- Changes in blood color or texture (including clots)
- Unusual vaginal discharge between cycles (thicker or stickier mid-cycle discharge is often a normal sign of ovulation)
If you notice major changes or irregularities, tracking this information will be valuable for your doctor.