"Thank you women!": Science delves into one of nature's most consistent cycles

Without the menstrual cycle "our very existence as a species would be completely altered"

Published September 26, 2014 2:55PM (EDT)

                          (iStockphoto/shawshot)
(iStockphoto/shawshot)

It arrives, like clockwork, every month (unless there are there are special circumstances): It's your period.

Women are all too familiar with this not-so-glamorous cycle of nature, but the truth is if you look at the science it's a pretty incredible thing.

And for those of you who haven't thought about this cycle since a high school health class, here's a probably much needed refresher, courtesy of AsapSCIENCE:

Hopefully the wider population -- including Apple, who didn't include a period tracker with new iPhone 6's Health Kit  -- will take note.


By Sarah Gray

Sarah Gray is an assistant editor at Salon, focusing on innovation. Follow @sarahhhgray or email sgray@salon.com.

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Asapscience Life Menstrual Cycle Menstruation Ovaries Pms Science Video