Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: Why It Takes Time to Settle (and What Hormonal Contraception Really Does)
For many young women, getting your first period is seen as a milestone — a sign that your body is “maturing.”
But what most people don’t tell you is that your menstrual cycle doesn’t become regular overnight.
In fact, it can take several years — yes, years — for your cycle to mature, balance out, and find its natural rhythm.
Let’s clear up some common myths, help you understand what’s really going on in your body, and talk about where hormonal contraception fits into the picture — and where it doesn’t.
It’s Normal for Your Cycle to Be Irregular in the Early Years
When you first start menstruating (called menarche), your body is learning how to ovulate.
The brain and ovaries are just beginning their lifelong hormonal “conversation.”
That means in the early years:
Periods may be irregular or unpredictable
You might skip months completely
Flow can vary from light to heavy
PMS symptoms may come and go inconsistently
This doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.
It often just means your cycle is still developing — and this can continue for up to 6 years after your first period, according to NICE and other UK clinical guidance.
What Is a “Mature” Cycle?
A mature menstrual cycle typically:
Lasts around 21–35 days (this can vary woman to woman)
Involves regular ovulation (which is the key to hormonal balance)
Has a predictable bleed pattern
Ovulation is crucial — it’s not just about fertility. Ovulation triggers the release of progesterone, a calming, anti-inflammatory hormone that balances oestrogen.
Without it, oestrogen can dominate — leading to mood swings, acne, heavy bleeding, or irregular cycles.
What About the Pill (or Other Hormonal Contraception)?
Hormonal contraception — like the combined pill, mini pill, patch, injection, implant, or IUS (hormonal coil) — can be incredibly useful tools for:
Preventing pregnancy
Managing symptoms like acne or heavy bleeding
Reducing period pain or PMS
BUT — and this is important — they don’t “regulate” your natural cycle.
They override it.
The “bleed” you get on the pill is called a withdrawal bleed — not a true period. It’s your body reacting to a hormone break, not ovulation.
Hormonal contraception is not a treatment for underlying cycle issues (like PCOS, endometriosis, etc.) — it’s a management tool.
It may mask symptoms, but it doesn’t resolve the root cause (apart from if you're using it specifically for a diagnosed condition where it's clinically indicated (like severe endometriosis or heavy menstrual bleeding ).
Why This Matters
Too often, young women are told:
“Just go on the pill .”
And while hormonal contraception has its place — and can be a huge relief for many — it’s important you understand what it’s doing, and what it’s not.
Your menstrual cycle is a vital sign of health. It reflects your:
Nutrition
Stress levels
Sleep
Emotional well-being
Hormonal balance
And understanding your own cycle helps you connect with your body in an empowered, informed way.
So What Can You Do?
If you’re a young woman and your cycle feels all over the place, here’s what to keep in mind:
✅ Be patient. Your body is still developing.
✅ Track your cycle — not just bleeding, but mood, sleep, symptoms, and energy too.
✅ Eat well, sleep well, and manage stress — they all impact hormone health.
✅ Speak to a trusted healthcare provider — not every irregularity is “normal,” and it’s important to rule out things like PCOS, thyroid issues, or anaemia.
✅ Ask questions before starting contraception — make sure you know your options and how they work.
✅ Remember: you’re not broken. Your body is learning, growing, and adapting.
Final Thought
At EverWell, I believe in giving women — especially young women — the information they deserve about their bodies.
Because with knowledge comes confidence. And with confidence comes power.
Whether you’re exploring contraception, struggling with symptoms, or just want to understand what’s going on inside your body, I’m here to support you — judgement-free and evidence-led.
Book a free discovery call if you’d like to talk about your cycle, your symptoms, or your health goals.
With knowledge & kindness,
Ellie
Founder, EverWell
