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Understand Every Phase of Your Menstruation Cycle

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Haluk Çelik

Understanding the menstrual cycle phases is crucial as it plays a pivotal role in female reproductive health, preparing the female body for the possibility of pregnancy each month. Whether you're curious about your body's changes each month or seeking clarity on what's considered normal, you've come to the right place.

This blog will explore each phase in detail, from the onset of menstruation to ovulation, shedding light on the hormonal orchestration behind the scenes. By the end of this read, you'll not only have a better understanding of the menstrual cycle but also appreciate its significance in female reproductive health. So, let’s dive in and explore each of these stages in detail to better understand what happens during a typical menstrual cycle.

What Is The Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle refers to the series of natural changes the female reproductive system undergoes to prepare for a possible pregnancy. It begins with the first day of menstruation (period) and ends the day before the next period starts. The entire process is controlled by hormonal fluctuations involving estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).

What Is The Normal Cycle For The Menstrual Period?

A normal menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 and 35 days, although the most common menstrual cycle length is around 28 days. The cycle varies from person to person and can be affected by stress, lifestyle, or medical conditions. As long as the length is relatively consistent, it is considered normal.

Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

There are 4 menstrual phases. These are;

Menstruation (Your Period)

Menstruation is the first stage of the menstrual cycle. During this phase, the uterine lining (endometrium) sheds and exits the body through the vagina as menstrual blood if no pregnancy has occurred. This bleeding marks Day 1 of a new cycle. Menstruation can also include symptoms such as: 

  • Cramps 
  • Bloating 
  • Mood changes 
  • Breast tenderness 
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Constipation

How Long Does A Period Last?

A normal period lasts between 3 to 7 days, though it can vary among individuals. The flow is usually heavier at the beginning and tapers off toward the end. In the initial years after menstruation starts, longer cycles are typical. 

However, as individuals grow older, their cycles usually become shorter and more consistent. Variations outside this range (like very short or extremely long periods) may indicate an underlying medical condition that warrants consultation with a healthcare provider.

​​Follicular Phase

The follicular phase begins on Day 1 of the menstrual cycle (the first day of the period) and lasts until ovulation. During this phase, the pituitary gland releases FSH, stimulating follicles in the ovaries to mature, with one dominant follicle developing into a mature egg. 

As estrogen levels rise, the uterine lining thickens to prepare for the potential implantation of a fertilized egg. The follicular phase typically lasts between 10 to 16 days, depending on the individual’s cycle length.

Ovulation

Ovulation is a key event in the menstrual cycle, typically occurring around Day 14 in a 28-day cycle. A surge in LH levels triggers the release of a mature egg from the dominant follicle in the ovary, and the egg travels through the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized if sperm is present. 

This phase marks the peak of fertility, with the egg remaining viable for 12 to 24 hours. Common signs of ovulation include a slight increase in body temperature, mild cramping or discomfort, and changes in cervical mucus.

Luteal Phase

The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next period, typically around 12 to 14 days. During this phase, the empty follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to maintain the thickened uterine lining in case of fertilization and implantation.

If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, causing a drop in progesterone levels. This hormonal decline triggers the shedding of the uterine lining, leading to menstruation and the start of a new cycle.

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Haluk Çelik
Table of Contents

What Is The Menstrual Cycle?

What Is The Normal Cycle For The Menstrual Period?

Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

Article Review History

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