Menstrual cycle

What's the length of your menstrual cycle?

Your menstrual cycle starts on the first day of your period and ends on the first day of your next period.

Typically, menstrual cycles last for 28 days, but many women don't have an average cycle. It can range from 21 to 35 days.

If your cycle is consistently shorter or longer than usual, it's best to talk to your doctor or gynecologist.

Different phases of your menstrual cycle

Phase 1: Menstruation (2-6 days)

Your menstrual cycle starts on the first day of your period. This happens because the levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body decrease, leading to the shedding of your uterine lining.

How you may feel:

You may experience menstrual symptoms that require extra rest during this phase, such as low energy, cramps, and bloating.

Tips:

• Plan some self-care time
• Get enough rest
• Engage in gentle exercise

Phase 2: Follicular phase (3-7 days)

The second phase of the menstrual cycle is known as the follicular phase, lasting for about 3-7 days. This phase starts after the menstrual phase and ends when ovulation occurs. During this time, estrogen levels in the body rise, leading to the development of an egg in the ovaries.

How you may feel:

You may feel more energetic, less stressed, and more social during this phase.

Tips:

Make the most of your energy levels by going out with friends and engaging in intense exercise routines.

Phase 3: Ovulation (2-3 days)

What exactly is ovulation? Well, when the egg is released from your ovaries, it "jumps," so to speak. That's why it's called "ovulation." Your estrogen reaches a peak and then drops very quickly.

How you may feel:

You have the most energy in your whole cycle, you feel happy, and you glow. You may notice that you have a higher sex drive around this time. This is because your body also produces some testosterone. Of course, your body wants that egg to be fertilized. Beware! Some women don't feel good at all during ovulation, but instead experience depressive feelings.

Tips:

• Enjoy the peak of your energy
• Embrace your increased libido

Luteal phase (10-14 days)

After ovulation, the luteal phase begins. Your estrogen levels decrease, and the hormone progesterone starts to rise. When your body realizes that the egg is not fertilized, both your estrogen and progesterone levels will drop.

How you may feel:

This is the period during which PMS or PMDD symptoms may occur, such as mood swings, fatigue, irritability, depressive feelings, etc.

Tips:

• Focus on self-care
• Clear your schedule
• Get enough rest

Conclusion:

A natural menstrual cycle lasts 28 days and consists of 4 phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. Your body changes with each phase, which means that your energy levels change throughout your cycle. If you keep track of your cycle, you can adjust your schedule accordingly.