Every cycle is specific to the individual

It’s important to remember that each woman’s cycle can vary in presenting symptoms and regularity. In addition, there are circulating myths that symptoms can differ between natural cycles and contraceptive pill users, when in fact this is due to individual hormone levels. A useful tool to help familiarise yourself with your natural cycle is daily symptom mapping. Not only can you journal this but there are a plethora of online apps that provide this feature such as Flo. The first step into understanding your body and its cycle is education surrounding the seperate phases of the female menstrual cycle.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Ovulation

Ovulation occurs about midway through the menstrual cycle, or 13 to 15 days before the start of the next period. This is when the release of an egg from the ovary occurs. Ovulation separates the follicular and luteal phases of your cycle. Here is where you will see an increase in oestrogen levels and an immediate drop in levels after ovulation has happened. 

Follicular Phase 

This phase starts with the first day of bleeding which can last up to 5-7 days. During this time low concentrations of oestrogen and progesterone start to build up. Later in the phase 

the pituitary gland (a small area at the base of the brain that makes hormones) produces a hormone called follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH tells the ovaries to prepare an egg for ovulation. This is where the body prepares itself for a potential pregnancy.

During menstruation it can be common to have feelings of fatigue, self consciousness and just needing some down time. Post period (bleed) and towards the final stages of the follicular phase you can find yourself feeling more focused, confident and energised. 

Luteal Phase

This phase begins with ovulation, which is when the egg is released from the ovaries. During this time you can expect a decrease in oestrogen and an increase in progesterone, this is the body’s way of preparing for a potential pregnancy. Within the first 7-9 days of ovulation your energy and time for giving is at its highest, after this point there is an increase in both oestrogen and progesterone. This increase in hormones has its purpose in supporting the body for pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, then there is a drop in both of these hormones causing the uterus lining to shed. This is when the cycle begins all over again with another period (bleed) and often premenstrual symptoms settle in.