The Menstrual Cycle Explained

Understanding how the menstrual cycle works can help you feel more in control of your health. Whether you menstruate or support someone who does, it’s useful to know what happens during each phase of the cycle and how it can affect the body physically and emotionally.

What is the Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle is a regular process the body goes through to prepare for a possible pregnancy. It involves hormonal changes that affect the ovaries and uterus. If pregnancy does not occur, the cycle ends with a period, and the process starts again.

The average cycle lasts about 28 days, but anything between 21 and 35 days is considered normal. The cycle is divided into four main phases, each with a specific purpose.

Read More: What’s Actually Causing Your Period Pain?

The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

1. Menstrual Phase (Your Period)

• When it happens: This starts on the first day of bleeding and usually lasts 3 to 7 days.

• What’s happening: The uterus sheds its lining, which leaves the body as menstrual blood.

• What you may notice: Vaginal bleeding, cramps, fatigue, changes in mood, bloating, or back pain. Some people experience mild symptoms; others may find it more difficult.

2. Follicular Phase

• When it happens: This begins at the same time as your period and continues until ovulation.

• What’s happening: The brain sends signals to the ovaries to begin developing follicles. One follicle will mature into an egg. The uterus also begins rebuilding its lining.

• What you may notice: Improved energy, mental focus, and mood stability. Symptoms tend to be minimal during this time.

  
  

3. Ovulation

• When it happens: Around the middle of the cycle (day 14 in a 28-day cycle).

• What’s happening: A mature egg is released from one ovary. It remains available for fertilisation for about 12 to 24 hours.

• What you may notice: Some people feel a brief pain on one side of the lower abdomen, notice changes in vaginal discharge (which may become clear and stretchy), or experience a stronger sex drive. Others may not feel any changes at all.

  
  

4. Luteal Phase

• When it happens: After ovulation and before the start of the next period.

• What’s happening: The body produces more hormones to support a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, hormone levels drop, and the uterus prepares to shed its lining.

• What you may notice: Premenstrual symptoms such as tiredness, breast tenderness, mood changes, food cravings, or sleep disturbances. Some people experience more severe symptoms than others.

Cycles Vary from Person to Person

Not everyone’s cycle follows the same pattern. Some people have short, regular cycles; others may have longer or irregular cycles. Changes can happen for many reasons, including stress, weight changes, medical conditions (like PCOS or thyroid issues), intense exercise, or certain medications.

You should consider speaking to a healthcare provider if:

• Your periods are unusually heavy or very painful

• Your cycle is consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days

• You regularly skip periods without a known reason

• You experience symptoms that interfere with your daily life

Further Reading: The Beauty Shift: How Menopause Transforms Your Hair, Skin, and Nails

Why Tracking Your Cycle Can Be Helpful

Many people choose to track their cycles to better understand their patterns and symptoms. You can track:

• Start and end dates of your period

• Level of bleeding (light, medium, or heavy)

• Physical symptoms like cramps, headaches, or bloating

• Mood changes, energy levels, and sleep quality

This can be done with a notebook, calendar, or an app. Some people use this information to plan around expected changes, while others find it helps them spot irregularities or discuss concerns with a doctor.

Why It’s Worth Understanding

The menstrual cycle affects more than just your reproductive system. Hormonal changes throughout the month can influence sleep, mood, concentration, skin, appetite, and more.

Being aware of where you are in your cycle can help you better understand your body and respond to what it needs at different times.

Talking About Periods Matters

There is nothing shameful or embarrassing about menstruation. It is a natural part of life for many people, and talking about it openly can help reduce stigma, improve support, and encourage better healthcare experiences.

Everyone deserves clear, respectful information about their body.