Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle Phases

The Four Phases of Your Menstrual Cycle

Your menstrual cycle is divided into four distinct phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Each phase is characterized by different hormonal changes that affect your body and mood in various ways.

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 sheds, causing menstrual bleeding. Hormone levels are at their lowest during this phase, which may cause fatigue, cramping, and mood changes.

Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)

This phase overlaps with the menstrual phase and continues until ovulation. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce follicles. One follicle will become dominant and continue to mature, producing increasing levels of estrogen. During this phase, you may notice increased energy, improved mood, and clearer skin.

Ovulation Phase (Day 14)

Ovulation occurs when the mature egg is released from the ovary, typically around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. This is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH). You may experience a slight increase in basal body temperature, changes in cervical mucus, and mild cramping on one side of the lower abdomen (mittelschmerz). This is your most fertile time.

Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone prepares the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesn't occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, hormone levels decrease, and the uterine lining begins to shed, starting the cycle again. During this phase, you may experience premenstrual symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, and food cravings.

How Hormones Affect Your Cycle

The menstrual cycle is regulated by four main hormones:

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Triggers ovulation
• Estrogen: Builds up the uterine lining and affects mood, energy, and cognitive function
• Progesterone: Prepares the uterus for pregnancy and can cause PMS symptoms

Tracking Your Cycle

Understanding your unique cycle can help you predict how you'll feel physically and emotionally throughout the month. By tracking your cycle with MensesCalculator, you can identify patterns in your symptoms, mood, and energy levels, allowing you to plan activities accordingly and better manage any discomfort.