4 Phases of a Menstrual Cycle
Information = Power
Knowing what's going on during each part of your menstrual cycle can be so helpful no matter where you're at in life. Whether you're trying for a baby or trying not to have a baby, having a clear understanding of your body and your hormones can empower you to make healthy choices that fit your body's unique needs.
Phase 1: Menstrual Phase
The phase from the time bleeding starts to the time it ends. Your hormones are at the lowest during the Menstrual Phase and the lining of your uterus is shedding.
Phase 2: Follicular Phase
The phase from the first day of menstruation until ovulation. Your hormones begin to rise and your ovaries prepare an egg to be released. You may notice you have more energy during this time.
Phase 3: Ovulation Phase
This occurs approximately midway through your cycle. Egg white cervical mucus increases and a surge of LH causes the matured follicle to rupture and release the egg from the ovary.
Phase 4: Luteal Phase
The phase from ovulation to the start of your next period. Progesterone levels rise and stay elevated for many days. If no pregnancy results, progesterone begins to drop and this stimulates the shedding of the uterine lining.
What do we do with this information?
Start by tuning in. Pay attention to where you are in your cycle. Now that you have language for the phase you are in, notice what is happening for your body during each phase. What is your mood, energy, sleep, pain, digestion doing? The hormonal shifts that accompany our natural rhythm have far reaching impacts in our body. Your body is unique and wise. Tune in to what it has to say.
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Dr. Nicole Shortt, ND
Dr Nicole Shortt, BSc, ND is a Naturopathic Physician who is passionate about naturopathic medicine and the choices it gives people in health care.
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