A woman's cycle is approximately 28 days long. During these 28 days, there are a lot of physical and emotional changes happening in your body. Medically your cycle is divided into two phases: Follicular Phase and Luteal Phase.
Menstruation
This is where you get your period. Because the egg was not fertilized, your progesterone levels drop causing the shedding of your uterine lining. This lasts for approx. 3-7 days. During this phase, you may struggle with low energy, cramps, mood swings, tender breasts, headaches, lower back pain, etc.
The Follicular Phase
The follicular phase starts with the first day of the period and ends with ovulation. This phase is predominantly regulated by the hormones FSH and Estradiol (estrogen). During this period the follicles mature into the oocyte and the uterus lining (endometrium) starts to form creating a healthy environment for a pregnancy. It can last 11-27 days. Due to increasing estrogen, you may feel more energized, feel more focused, have glowing skin, and have an increased sex drive
Ovulation
Rising estrogen levels cause an LH surge which starts the ovulation process. During this, the ovary releases a mature egg which travels down the fallopian tube to be fertilized. Your basal temperature rises and you have discharge with an egg-white consistency. Ovulation occurs around the 14th day of your cycle and lasts for 24 hours.
(PRO TIP: to calculate your exact ovulation day subtract 14 days from the first day of your period.)
The Luteal Phase
The Follicular phase is predominantly regulated by the LH and progesterone hormones. It starts with the LH surge (ovulation) and ends on the first day of pregnancy. Here your uterus lining becomes secretory meaning, it becomes highly vascular and nutritious for a possible pregnancy. If pregnant the corpus luteum around the egg will continue secreting progesterone and hCG, if not the progesterone levels slowly decrease causing PMS syndromes. You may feel low mood, anxiety, cravings, breast tenderness, sleep issues, fatigue, and bloating.
For a detailed guide about how to optimize your cycle take a look at 'Cycle Syncing: What is it?'
For any questions or suggestions make sure to contact us at info@woombwellness.com!
Comments