Are you curious about what gave the menstrual cycle its specific name? Well, you are not alone! Many people wonder why it is called ‘the period’ and, in this article, we will provide an answer to that very question.
The period as we all know is a natural, essential, and normal part of the female life cycle and has been for centuries. But, when did the term ‘period’ come about?
Keep reading to find out the answer.
Why Is It Called Period?
Period, or “the period” as it is commonly referred to, is a term used for the monthly menstrual cycle of women and some other animals. Its origin is believed to date back to the ancient Greek language, in which it was known as “krisis.” In Latin, this translates to “inchoation. ” Although the exact origin of how the word became associated with menstruation is unknown, the word had been used as early as the 14th century to refer to the menstrual cycle.
The Word’s Meaning
The word “period” is derived from the Greek word “chronos,” which means “time” or “era. ” This makes sense, as the menstrual cycle generally occurs every 28 days and is a regular repeating cycle. It is like a clock in many ways, with each cycle being a new “era” or “time.”
A Part Of History
The use of the word “period” to refer to the female menstrual cycle is attributed to French physician, anatomist, and physiology philosopher Dr. Joseph Raulin.He first used the term in the 18th century when discussing gynecology, the scientific study of female reproductive health and anatomy. The word quickly caught on and became a commonly used term.