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Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Guide

February 12, 2025 • 8 min read
Menstrual cycle diagram

Your menstrual cycle is more than just your period. It's a complex interplay of hormones that affects your body in various ways throughout the month. Understanding this cycle can help you better predict your periods, recognize patterns in your mood and energy levels, and even identify potential health issues.

The Four Phases of Your Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle can be divided into four distinct phases, each characterized by different hormonal activities and physical changes:

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

This phase begins on the first day of your period and typically lasts 3-7 days. During this time, the uterine lining that built up in the previous cycle sheds through the vagina if pregnancy didn't occur. Common symptoms include:

  • Cramping in the lower abdomen
  • Fatigue
  • Lower back pain
  • Mood fluctuations
  • Headaches

2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)

This phase overlaps with the menstrual phase, beginning on day 1 and ending with ovulation. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce 5-20 follicles, each containing an immature egg. Usually, only one follicle will mature into an egg, while the others are reabsorbed.

During this phase, estrogen levels rise, causing the uterine lining to thicken in preparation for a potential pregnancy. You might notice:

  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved mood
  • Higher cognitive function
  • Increased libido as ovulation approaches

3. Ovulation Phase (Day 14)

Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, though this can vary. Rising estrogen levels trigger a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), causing the mature follicle to release its egg into the fallopian tube. The egg survives for about 24 hours if not fertilized.

Signs of ovulation may include:

  • Slight increase in basal body temperature
  • Changes in cervical mucus (becomes clearer and more slippery)
  • Mild pelvic pain or cramping (mittelschmerz)
  • Increased libido
  • Breast tenderness

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone prepares the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesn't occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, causing progesterone levels to drop and triggering menstruation.

During this phase, you might experience:

  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
  • Bloating
  • Mood changes
  • Breast tenderness
  • Food cravings
  • Fatigue

Tracking Your Cycle

Keeping track of your menstrual cycle can help you understand your body better and identify any irregularities. You can track:

  • Start and end dates of your period
  • Flow intensity
  • Symptoms throughout your cycle
  • Mood changes
  • Energy levels

Many smartphone apps are available to help you track these details, or you can use a simple calendar or journal.

When to See a Doctor

While variations in cycle length and symptoms are normal, certain signs warrant medical attention:

  • Very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several consecutive hours)
  • Periods that last longer than 7 days
  • Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
  • Irregular periods (cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days)
  • Missed periods (if you're not pregnant, breastfeeding, or in perimenopause)
  • Bleeding between periods

Conclusion

Understanding your menstrual cycle empowers you to recognize what's normal for your body and identify potential health concerns. Remember that every person's cycle is unique, and variations are common. By tracking your cycle and paying attention to your body's signals, you can better manage your health and well-being throughout the month.

At Purehygie, we're committed to supporting your menstrual health with products designed for comfort and protection during every phase of your cycle.