Are you familiar with the four phases of your menstrual cycle? If you would like to learn more about each stage, read through the following article. Each phase of your menstrual cycle has different effects, which is why you may feel moody one day and tired another day. In order to prepare how to work with your cycle, you need educate yourself about the four phases of your menstrual cycle.
The four phases of the menstrual cycle include: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Every woman’s cycles vary, but the average length of the menstrual cycle is about 28 days. Some women have longer menstrual cycles while others have shorter; it solely depends on the individual. You can calculate your menstrual cycle by noting the first day of your period and observing when the next period will start. Below are the four specific phases of the menstrual cycle explained to help you better understand your cycle.
Menstruation
The menstruation phase is also known as the bleeding phase, which usually lasts between three and seven days. During the menstruation phase, your energy begins to decline and you feel tired. However, not every woman feels the same. It is more likely for you to feel less energy during this phase, but it is not guaranteed. The first day of your cycle is when you begin bleeding, and your progesterone level drops.
What to Do: Because you have less energy during the menstruation phase, try limiting your exercise time and go for a short walk or do some yoga. Yoga and simple stretches are excellent to relieve pain from cramps or headaches because it loosens up your body and keeps you in a meditative and calm state. Pamper yourself and give yourself some time to just breathe. Have a nice, hot bath and go to bed an hour earlier than you usual would. Make sure to not overexert yourself and leave some time to be alone so you can focus only on yourself.
The Follicular Phase
This phase begins when the menstruation phase ends and usually lasts between seven and ten days. The term “follicular” comes from the hormone FSH, the Follicle Stimulating Hormone. The pituitary gland releases the hormone during this phase in which FSH stimulates the follicles in the ovaries so that they become mature. During the follicular phase you begin to feel lighter and happier because of the low amounts of estrogen and testosterone. However, as time continues and you get closer to your menstruation phase the levels of estrogen and testosterone increase.
What to Do: Be social! Your energy and spirit should feel refueled, which makes it easier to socialize and start new things. Engage in demanding activities and challenge yourself, such as going to a strenuous exercise class. Try experiencing new and unfamiliar things like going to an art class or work on something you have been wanting to finish for some time.
Ovulation
The ovulatory phase usually lasts between two and three days and is the shortest phase of the menstrual cycle. Before ovulation, the pituitary gland releases the hormone called LH (or the Luteinizing Hormone) so that it causes the dominant follicle to open and release the egg into the fallopian tube. Usually, during the ovulatory phase you feel more confident and attractive due to the steadily increased levels of estrogen and testosterone. Sexual feelings also increase during this phase and you may experience heightened senses like smell and taste.
What to Do: Enjoy lots of physical activity and exercise. Your energy levels have reached a high during this phase, so get in lots of exercise. Do some high impact workouts or go running. Join a zumba or workout class and get moving. Make important plans during this phase or schedule public speaking. Also, enjoy flirting during the ovulatory phase.
The Luteal Phase
Lasting between twelve and sixteen days, the luteal phase occurs after the ovulatory phase. The levels of FSH, LH, estrogen, and testosterone all steadily decline while progesterone is produced and gradually increased. Progesterone stimulates the growth of the lining of the uterus and therefore helps in preparing for pregnancy. However, when you are not pregnant, the uterine lining will shed, which leads into the first phase of the menstrual cycle (the menstruation phase).
What to Do: During the week before your period, make sure to really pay attention to yourself. Practice self-care by eating healthy foods and getting what your body needs. Do things that you enjoy doing like reading or practicing yoga.
In Sum…
To sum it all up, there are the four phases of the menstrual cycle, including the menstruation, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases. Keep yourself informed so that you can better deal with your menstrual cycle.
