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Menstrual Cycle: Know about all the phases in period cycle

Your Menstrual Cycle Phases: A Basic Guide

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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?](#link1)
2. [What Are The Phases Of Menstrual Cycle](#link2)
3. [Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase](#link3)
4. [Phase 2- Follicular Phase](#link4)
5. [Phase 3 - Ovulation Phase](#link5)
6. [Phase 4 - Luteal Phase](#link6)
7. [Common Menstrual Problems ](#link7)


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Among the myriad of changes, your overall health is directed by your menstrual cycle - one that regulates the feminine functions in your body. Your period cycle entails four different phases, namely - menstruation, follicular, ovulation and luteal. These phases are connected and sometimes even overlap. To discover more about what a menstrual cycle is and what are the stages of a normal menstrual cycle, keep on reading.

Your period cycle entails four different phases, namely - menstruation, follicular, ovulation and luteal

What Is A Menstrual Cycle?

<h2 id="link1" class="bluetext">What Is A Menstrual Cycle?</h2> 

Your menstrual cycle starts on the day of your period and ends before the start of your next period. Typically, a normal menstrual cycle lasts for about 24 to 38 days on average. But as every woman's body is different, the number of days can differ. Read more about [irregular periods causes and treatment](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/irregular-periods-treatment-and-causes) here.

Typically, a normal menstrual cycle lasts for about 24 to 38 days on average.

What Are The Phases Of Menstrual Cycle

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<h2 class="bluetext">What Are The Phases Of Menstrual Cycle</h2> 

Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase 

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<h2 class="bluetext text19">Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase</h2> 

Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase

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](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/normal-vs-abnormal-menstrual-cycle-signs-and-symptoms) 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. 

<h3 style="color:#002abb">How Long Does It Last:</h3> On average, menses last for 3-7 days. 

<h4 style="color:#002abb">Symptoms:</h4>

- <h5>Tender breasts</h5>
- <h5>Cramps</h5>
- <h5>Irritation</h5>
-	<h5>Headaches</h5>
-	<h5>Low back pain</h5>
-	<h5>Mood swings</h5>
-	<h5>Bloating</h5>

<h4 style="color:#002abb">What To Do:</h4> 

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](/sanitary-pads/always-maxi-thick-pads-with-wings) . 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](/sanitary-pads) in place. In case you love using a [tampon](/tampons), try out the [ALWAYS TAMPAX Cardboard Tampons](/tampons/always-tampax-cardboard). 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. 


Phase 2 - Follicular Phase

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<h2 class="bluetext text19">Phase 2 - Follicular Phase</h2>

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.

<h3 style="color:#002abb">How Long Does It Last:</h3> It usually lasts for about 16 days but varies based on your cycle.

<h4 style="color:#002abb">Symptoms:</h4>

-	<h5>Higher energy levels</h5>
-	<h5>Higher libido</h5>
-	<h5>Glowing skin</h5>

<h4 style="color:#002abb">What To Do:</h4> Track your body temperature as it can help you know when your follicular phase is over and ovulation begins. 


Phase 3 - Ovulation Phase

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<h2 class="bluetext text19">Phase 3 - Ovulation Phase</h2>


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](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pregnancy/ovulation-symptoms-5-signs-of-ovulation-period) here. Read about 5 signs to know [ovulation is over](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pregnancy/5-signs-that-indicate-your-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.

<h3 style="color:#002abb">Ways to track the ovulation phase :</h3>

-	<h4>Increase in cervical mucus</h5>
-	<h4>Chart your cycle</h5>
-	<h4>Track your body basal temperature</h5>
-	<h4>Ovulation predictor kits</h5>

<h3 style="color:#002abb">How long Does It Last:</h3> It lasts for roughly 12-24 hours

<h4 style="color:#002abb">Symptoms:</h4>

-	<h5>Thick white vaginal discharge</h5>
-	<h5>Increase in body temperature</h5> 

<h4 style="color:#002abb">What To Do:</h4> If you are trying to conceive, tracking your ovulation phase would prove to be beneficial for you. 

Try out Always [Ovulation Calendar](/period-calculator) 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](/panty-liners/always-multiform-protect) 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. 


Phase 4 - Luteal Phase

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<h2 class="bluetext text19">Phase 4 - Luteal Phase</h2>

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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.

<h3 style="color:#002abb">How Long It Lasts:</h3> The luteal phase can last for anywhere from 11 days to 17 days.

<h4 style="color:#002abb">Symptoms:</h4>
If you don’t get pregnant, you would experience PMS symptoms like:

-	<h5>Mood swings</h5>
-	<h5>Bloating</h5>
-	<h5>Tender breasts</h5>
-	<h5>Breast pain</h5>
-	<h5>Weight gain</h5>
-	<h5>Food cravings</h5>

<h4 style="color:#002abb">What To Do:</h4> Add iron and magnesium-rich foods to your daily diet to boost your energy levels. 


Common Menstrual Problems

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](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pms/all-you-need-to-know-about-pms))
-	Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
-	Abnormal bleeding
-	Dysmenorrhea ([Painful periods](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/why-you-may-be-getting-heavy-painful-periods))
-	Oligomenorrhea (Light periods)
-	Amenorrhea ([Missed periods](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/10-reasons-for-a-missed-period))
-	Menorrhagia ([Heavy periods](/tips-and-advice-for-women/pcos/what-is-menorrhagia))


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<h2 class="bluetext">Common Menstrual Problems</h2> 

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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.


FAQ 

__FAQs__<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">1. Which of the 4 menstrual cycle phases is the longest?</h2>
<br>

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.
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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">2. What happens during the luteal phase?</h2>
<br>

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.
<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">3. Can you get pregnant in the ovulation phase?</h2>
<br>

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.
<br>

<h2 class="cardimgtexth2" style="color:#002abb">4. How to count your menstrual cycle using a period calculator?</h2>
<br>

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:
<br>

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__.


Menstrual cycle: Wondering what are the phases of menstrual cycle? Discover the four stages of a normal period cycle at Always <Country_Name>.

Menstrual Cycle: Know about all the phases in period cycle

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