The wall of the womb (uterus) consists of three layers:
- the endometrium (inner layer of muscle tissue)
- the myometrium (middle layer of muscle tissue)
- the perimetrium (outer layer of muscle tissue)
The endometrium is also known as the womb lining. It consists of 2 layers, namely the basal layer, which is always present, and the functional layer, which is shed during a period.
Following your period, the body prepares for possible pregnancy during the next menstrual cycle. Levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise during the first half of the cycle and your womb lining becomes thicker to get ready for the embedding of a fertilised egg. If the egg cell is not fertilised, the body sheds the functional layer of the womb lining during your period.
A thicker lining can mean heavy periods
The thickness of each woman’s womb lining varies. If you have a thicker womb lining, you are more likely to suffer heavy bleeding during your period i.e. have heavy periods.
If you are suffering with heavy periods, book an appointment to see your GP. Read about how to get the most out of your GP appointment here.