Track your period flow
Changes in menstrual flow can indicate hormonal shifts, stress, or underlying health changes. Beyond just timing, the consistency of your flow provides deep insights into your overall health.
Why track this symptom?
- Track the number of heavy vs. light days in each cycle.
- Identify patterns such as spotting or unexpected cycle shifts.
- Provide high-fidelity data to your OBGYN during annual exams.
How Trace helps
Trace is more than a period tracker; it's a holistic health log. By tracking your flow alongside mood and energy, you get a full-spectrum view of your monthly health.
Common causes
Normal menstrual flow variations are typically caused by hormonal fluctuations related to stress, weight changes, or life transitions like puberty and perimenopause. Birth control methods significantly affect flow patterns, with hormonal contraceptives usually lightening flow and IUDs potentially causing heavier periods initially. Underlying conditions like thyroid disorders, PCOS, or uterine fibroids can cause persistent changes in flow heaviness or timing. Certain medications, including blood thinners and anti-inflammatories, may also alter menstrual patterns.
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate care if you soak through a pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours, or if you experience dizziness and fatigue suggesting significant blood loss. Also see a doctor promptly if you pass clots larger than a quarter or experience bleeding with severe cramping outside your normal cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I track about my period?
Log start and end dates, flow heaviness each day (light, moderate, heavy), color, clot presence, associated symptoms like cramps or mood changes, and any spotting between periods. This builds a clear cycle history.
How does period tracking help my gynecologist?
Cycle data helps your gynecologist identify irregularities, diagnose conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, and evaluate whether treatment is needed. Having months of data makes appointments much more productive than relying on memory.
When should I see a doctor about my period?
See a doctor if periods are very heavy (soaking through protection hourly), last longer than 7 days, occur more frequently than every 21 days, stop for 3+ months (if not pregnant), or come with severe pain. Bring your tracking history.
What's the best way to accurately track flow heaviness in the app?
Use consistent products to gauge heaviness - if you normally use tampons, don't switch to pads mid-cycle as this affects comparison. Note how often you change protection and whether you need backup protection. Take photos of concerning clots or unusual colors to show your doctor if needed.
How many cycles should I track before I can identify my normal pattern?
Track at least 3-6 cycles to establish your baseline pattern, as individual cycles can vary due to stress or other factors. After 6 months of data, you'll have a clear picture of your normal cycle length, flow patterns, and any seasonal variations. This baseline makes it easier to spot significant changes that warrant medical attention.
Read the complete guide: How to Track Period Flow: A Complete Guide →