📋 Source: Standard menstrual cycle calculation. Normal cycle length: 21–35 days (RANZCOG). Fertile window estimated using calendar method — for informational purposes only, not a reliable contraceptive method.
Your doctor or healthcare provider knows your history and circumstances — always follow their personalised advice over general information.
Count from day 1 of one period to day 1 of the next. Normal range: 21–35 days.

A normal menstrual cycle is 21–35 days long (measured from day 1 of one period to day 1 of the next). Most cycles are around 28 days. A period (menstrual bleeding) typically lasts 2–7 days.

It's normal for cycles to vary by a few days from month to month. Cycles can be more irregular in the first few years after periods start (menarche) and in the years leading up to menopause (perimenopause).

A period is generally considered late if it hasn't arrived within 7 days of the expected date. Many things can delay a period temporarily:

  • Stress or significant life events
  • Illness (including infections)
  • Significant weight loss or gain
  • Intense or new exercise routine
  • Travel across time zones
  • Starting, stopping, or changing hormonal contraception

If your period is more than 7 days late and there is any possibility of pregnancy, take a pregnancy test. If more than 3 weeks late with a negative test, see your GP.

Your cycle length is the number of days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period. It does not include the duration of your period — just the gap between starts.

Example: Period starts 1 March, next period starts 29 March → cycle length is 28 days.

For the most accurate result, track 3–6 cycles and average them. A single cycle can vary by a few days and may not represent your typical pattern.

Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary. It typically occurs around 14 days before the next expected period — not necessarily 14 days after the last period. For a 28-day cycle this is usually around day 14; for a 35-day cycle it's closer to day 21.

The fertile window is roughly the 5 days before ovulation plus the day of ovulation itself — about 6 days total when pregnancy is most likely.

Important: The calendar/rhythm method is not a reliable form of contraception. Cycles vary, ovulation can shift, and sperm can survive several days. Speak to your GP about contraception options.

See your GP if:

  • Periods are consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
  • You're bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Periods have become significantly heavier or more painful than before
  • You've missed 3 or more periods and you're not pregnant
  • You're bleeding after menopause
  • You're soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours in a row
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