Menstruation Cycle: Phases, Period Cycle, and Common Period Problems

Do you believe that your menstrual cycle counts for only those five to seven days when you bleed? Well, that’s certainly not the case. On a day-to-day basis, your body changes and it is impacted greatly by hormonal fluctuations. Understanding how these changes impact your bodily functions is quite essential.

1. What Is A Menstrual Cycle?
2. What Are The Phases Of Menstrual Cycle
3. Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase
4. Phase 2- Follicular Phase
5. Phase 3 - Ovulation Phase
6. Phase 4 - Luteal Phase
7. Common Menstrual Problems

This is the first stage of the menstrual cycle when you get your period. It’s also called the menses stage. In this phase, there is a reduction in the levels of the two hormones, progesterone and estrogen. Read more about normal vs abnormal menstrual cycle here.

When: This phase begins if and when an egg is not fertilised in the previous cycle.

What: This phase involves shedding of unwanted tissue cells including old blood and mucus which is discharged through your vagina.

• Tender breasts

• Cramps

• Irritation

• Headaches

• Low back pain

• Mood swings

• Bloating

Try doing some relaxing yoga, get a massage or go for a long walk. Also, make sure to use the best period protection like the ALWAYS Maxi Thick Pads . It has unique anti-leakage barriers which provide maximum coverage. Besides, it’s also armed with an extra absorbent core and high flexi wings which easily soaks the discharge and keeps your pad in place. In case you love using a tampon, try out the ALWAYS TAMPAX Cardboard Tampons. Its innovative absorbent core locks the discharge and enables you to move freely. Additionally, its protective skirt minimises the risk of leakage and the anti-slip grip enables a smooth insertion.

Following your menses, this follicular phase is the next stage of your period cycle. It overlaps with the menstrual phase and ends when you ovulate. During the follicular phase, the pituitary gland releases a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn stimulates the ovaries. The ovaries are then directed to produce small sacs known as follicles. Every follicle contains one immature egg, out of which the healthiest one can mature into an embryo. In addition, there’s an increase in the estrogen levels in the body and the lining of the uterus thickens. This function takes place to create a favourable environment in which the embryo can develop and be nurtured.

When: The follicular phase begins on the first day of your period.

What: In the follicular phase, the uterus lining thickens and the follicle-stimulating hormone prepares for an egg to be released.

• Higher energy levels

• Higher libido

• Glowing skin

The process of ovulation begins due to a rise in estrogen levels. There is a spike in estrogen during the follicular phase, which, in turn, triggers the pituitary gland to release the luteinising hormone (ovulation stimulant). It is this hormonal release that triggers the ovulation phase. The mature egg is released, and it travels in the direction of the uterus to be fertilised by a sperm.

Read more about 5 signs of ovulation period here. Read about 5 signs to know ovulation is over.

When: Typically, this stage of the menstrual cycle occurs roughly on day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle.

What: In this phase a mature egg travels through the ovary into the fallopian tube.

• Increase in cervical mucus

• Chart your cycle

• Track your body basal temperature

• Ovulation predictor kits

• Thick white vaginal discharge

• Increase in body temperature

Try out Always Ovulation Calendar or over-the-counter ovulation kits which can help you figure your fertile days. Likewise, using panty liners for your vaginal discharge is recommended. Try out the ALWAYS Daily Liners Multiform Panty Liners which are mildly scent and designed with breathable materials to provide a comfortable fit. Additionally, they are thinner than 1mm and their secure-fit technology allows you worry-free movement.

The luteal phase happens due to the release of progesterone and estrogen that facilitate the thickening of the uterine lining. In the case of pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This is the hormone that maintains the lining of the uterine and is used to detect a pregnancy. If no pregnancy is detected, the developed corpus luteum will dissolve. This function causes a spike in the levels of progesterone and estrogen.

When: This phase of the menstrual cycle occurs after ovulation and up to your next period.

What: Your uterus is ready for the implantation of a fertilised egg.

• Mood swings

• Bloating

• Tender breasts

• Breast pain

• Weight gain

• Food cravings

While we’ve got a clear understanding of the various stages of the menstrual cycle, it’s essential to know about the menstrual problems that come along the way. So, here are some of the common menstrual problems that you should keep a note of:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Abnormal bleeding
• Dysmenorrhea (Painful periods)
• Oligomenorrhea (Light periods)
• Amenorrhea (Missed periods)
• Menorrhagia (Heavy periods)

A menstrual cycle and its duration can change during certain periods of your life. It is best to keep a track of your periods to steer clear of any possible issues with your menstrual cycle and overall health. If you notice any unusual bodily changes, you must consult your doctor immediately.

FAQs

The longest menstrual cycle phase is the follicular phase. It goes on for a large chunk of your monthly cycle - starting on the first of the period and going on until the last day of ovulation. This means in a 28-day cycle, the follicular phase would last from day 1 to day 14 of your menstrual cycle.

The luteal phase falls between the end of ovulation and beginning of your period. This is the time where the lining of your uterus thickens in expectation of a possible pregnancy. You can expect bloating, swollen breasts, headaches and weight gain during this phase.

Yes. In fact, ovulation phase is the most fertile period of your menstrual cycle. It begins around 12 to 14 days after you stop bleeding and gives you the maximum probability to get pregnant.

Using a period calculator to count your menstrual cycle is not only easy but can be very efficient. You just need to feed in three details which include:

1. The start date of your last period
2. How long your period lasted
3. The length of your menstrual cycle

Viola! That's how you will be able to count your menstrual cycle using the ALWAYS period calculator.