Menstrual Cycle Phases
It's surprising how little we're taught about our bodies as we grow up, but I'm here to change that by empowering you with the knowledge and tools to reconnect with your body. Understanding the menstrual cycle is not just about biology; it's about embracing a natural process that profoundly impacts our well-being. My goal is to help you navigate your menstrual health more confidently, embrace your body's rhythm, and live more harmoniously with it.
On average, a menstrual cycle lasts around 28 days. Although a healthy menstrual cycle can vary between 25 to 35 days. The cycle is divided into four main phases:
Menstrual Phase: This phase starts with menstrual bleeding, known as a period, as the uterus sheds its lining. Low estrogen and progesterone levels are the main reason this shedding occurs. During cycle days 1 to 4, the body begins to recruit follicles for the next ovulation cycle. Estrogen produced by these developing follicles starts to rebuild the uterine lining. As estrogen levels rise, the shedding of the uterine lining stops and your period ends. During this phase, women often feel a sense of relief and any PMS-related symptoms usually resolve. Some may still experience mild cramping and fatigue during this phase.
Follicular Phase: Overlapping with the menstrual phase, this phase begins as the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). By cycle day 8, one follicle emerges as dominant among the others. As this follicle grows, estrogen levels increase proportionately. By the middle of the follicular phase, rising estrogen causes luteinizing hormone (LH) levels to rise.
Ovulation Phase: Around mid-cycle, the sharp increase in estrogen, produced by the preovulatory follicle, marks the onset of the LH surge. This surge starts approximately 36 hours before ovulation, reaching its peak around 12 hours prior to the release of the egg. The mature follicle releases an egg into the fallopian tube, where it awaits fertilization. This is the most fertile time of the cycle. During the ovulation phase, many women experience positive changes both in mood and physical well-being. Emotionally, you may find yourself feeling happier, more motivated, social, outgoing, confident, and energized. Physically, you might notice clearer skin, higher libido, and increased strength and endurance.
Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum, producing progesterone. Progesterone and estrogen levels increase shortly after ovulation and reach their peak about one week later. If fertilization does not occur, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, causing the uterine lining to shed, and the cycle starts anew.
Dive deeper into understanding your menstrual health with my Cycle Tracking mini course! Perfect for women eager to explore their menstrual cycle and its impact on overall well-being. Gain essential insights to become more in tune with your body's monthly rhythms.