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5.3.3. Natural Method of Family Planning
Contraception can also be done through natural methods, but natural
methods are not so reliable. This includes the breastfeeding method,
vaginal ejaculation method, safe period intercourse schedule, tem-
perature measuren1ent method, etc.

5.4. Menstrual Cycle

Menstruation is the natural
bleeding frmn a woman's va-
gina once a month. It is a regu- 1 ~
lar biological process caused •
by hormones. The age at which
menstruation begins for the first
time, the interval between men-
struation in each n10nth and the
time when menstruation stops
may vary from woman to wom-
an. Most girls get their first period between the ages of 12 and 14. But
some teenage girl can have menstruation sooner or later than this
age. This is also considered normal. If the period is much later than
the normal age, you should consult a doctor. Generally, in healthy
women, menstruation repeats after 28 days. This process is called
the nlenstrual cycle. This cycle continues regulady until concep-
tion. In the early years of inenstruation, some people may have irreg-
ular menstrual cycles. There are three stages of the menstrual cycle.

Pre-ovulatory Phase

The pre-ovulation state is also known as the proliferative or
estrogen phase. In this state, the egg/ovum matures due to the effect of
follicle-stimulating hormone. Towards the middle of this phase,
estrogen levels increase and this prepares for ovulation. Due to es-
trogen, the inner part of the uterus begins to thicken.

Ovulatory Phase

This phase begins after the egg/ovum is expelled from the ovary.
After the ovum is released fr0111 the ovary, the corpus luteu111 releas-

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