When I first learned about periods, it was in PSHE class in school. It was a lesson that barely scratched the surface. Like how once a month you lose an egg, you get your period, and maybe some nasty cramps too. Nothing more and nothing less. Honestly, that’s pretty much all I thought there was to know. It was only up until recently (is that bad to admit!?) that I found myself learning a lot more about the menstrual cycle that I was surprised I didn’t know sooner.
Here’s the thing, there’s so much more to your menstrual cycle than just your period. It’s a whole rhythm that affects your body, mood, energy, and wellbeing in ways most of us don’t hear about.
That’s why today, I’m breaking down the menstrual cycle for you, and sharing simple ways to work with your body, not against it, through every phase.
Your Cycle
Before we begin, let’s understand the length of a cycle. Varying from person to person, the cycle lasts anywhere from 21 to 35 days with an average being around 28 days. During this time, your body goes through four different phases that affect your mood, appetite, libido, energy, and mental wellbeing.
What are these four phases, you ask? Well, let’s dive into it.
🔴 Menstrual Phase (Your Period) – Rest & Reset
Welcome to the start of your cycle, the menstrual phase! During this time your body is shedding its uterine lining because the egg from the previous cycle was not fertilised, which is what causes the bleeding. During this time, your reproductive hormones like oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest.
When the lining of your uterus sheds, the body releases prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can bring on those nasty symptoms like cramps and lower back pain.
With these hormonal fluctuations, you’re likely to experience mood changes and skin changes, as well as changes to your sleep. Did you know you can lose one night of sleep per cycle? You can read more about that on our blog post here.
Supporting Yourself During Your Menstrual Phase:
As this is a natural time to go inward, allow yourself the time to rest. If you feel like curling up with a blanket and saying no to social plans, that’s your body’s way of asking for rest. Give yourself grace, sip on some nourishing tea, and honour this phase.
🌱 Follicular Phase (Day 1-14ish) – Fresh Start Energy
Next is the follicular phase, the second phase of the cycle. This phase also occurs at the same time as your period and lasts right up until ovulation.
During this phase, your body is getting prepared for a potential pregnancy, so the lining of your uterus starts to thicken. At the same time, tiny fluid-filled sacs in your ovaries, called follicles, begin to grow. One of these will eventually release a mature egg, and this is when ovulation begins.
As oestrogen levels start to rise, you’ll likely feel a natural lift in your energy and mood. This is all thanks to a boost in serotonin (hello, happy hormone!). So don’t be surprised if you feel more upbeat, focused, and ready to take on the world.
Supporting Yourself During Your Follicular Phase:
This phase is all about fresh energy both mentally and physically. As your oestrogen rises, you might notice you’re feeling more motivated, creative, social, and ready to get things done. It’s a brilliant time to channel that energy!
Why not try something new, move your body, lean into your social side, start projects, get creative, or schedule those important meetings.
🌸 Ovulation (Mid-Cycle, Around Day 14) – Peak Power
Remember that mature egg I mentioned earlier? Once it’s released from your ovary and makes its way into the fallopian tube, that’s when ovulation officially begins.
During this time, your oestrogen levels are at their highest. You might feel more confident, radiant, and yes, your sex drive could get a little boost too. This is also the time when you’re most fertile.
Supporting Yourself During Your Ovulation Phase:
You’re likely to feel full of life and extra social and more outgoing than usual. This is perfect for social events, networking, and more intense workouts.
🌙 Luteal Phase (Days 15-28ish) – Cosy & Introspective
As you move into the luteal phase, progesterone rises, and things start to slow down. Did you know, progesterone acts as a natural sedative, which helps you to sleep better. We discussed this in a blog post here.
During this time, your main sex hormones gradually dip, reaching their lowest levels toward the end of the phase. This hormone drop is what signals your period is on the way and a fresh new cycle is about to begin!
You might notice shifts in your mood, like feeling a bit more sensitive, anxious, or irritable, and that’s totally normal. These changes happen because the fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone affect brain chemicals like serotonin, which play a big role in how you feel.
Supporting Yourself During Your Luteal Phase:
The luteal phase is your body’s gentle nudge to slow things down. During this time PMS like mood swings, bloating, and cravings can be at their worst. But instead of fighting it, lean into self-care. Think warm teas, gentle movement, nourishing meals, mindfulness, and extra rest.
Listening To Your Body
Your menstrual cycle is so much more than just your period. Each phase invites you to tune in with your body and take care of yourself. By doing so, you can feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
Whether it’s resting during your period, pushing forward in the follicular phase, or embracing your confidence around ovulation, listening to your body helps you show up as your best self.
