What happens during your cycle

For half of the world's population, the menstrual cycle is a regular occurrence, yet many people are still in the dark about what actually happens during this process.

Let's dive into the details of what goes on in a female body during each phase of the menstrual cycle.

What happens during a cycle

During a woman's menstrual cycle, the uterus prepares for pregnancy by thickening the lining, while the ovaries release an egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in menstruation.

How a cycle is structured

The menstrual cycle occurs (on average) every 28 days, starting on the first day of a period and ending on the day before the next period. However, the cycle can range from 20-35 days, with bleeding lasting for 2-7 days. The menstrual cycle is controlled by a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

The menstrual cycle has four phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase.

Menstrual phase

In the menstrual phase, also known as the bleeding phase, the body sheds the inner lining of the uterus, which is called the endometrium. This process occurs due to a sudden drop in hormone levels, specifically progesterone and estrogen. During this phase, you may also experience cramps, bloating, and mood fluctuations.

Follicular phase

After the menstrual phase comes the follicular phase. This phase lasts around 10-14 days and is initiated by a surge in FSH. FSH stimulates the ovaries to produce several follicles, each containing an immature egg. As these follicles grow, they produce increasing levels of estrogen. The high levels of estrogen cause the endometrium to thicken, preparing for a potential pregnancy.

Ovulation phase

Next up is the ovulation phase, which occurs when one of the follicles matures and releases an egg, which travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This process happens due to a sudden surge in LH, triggered by high levels of estrogen. Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of the cycle, but this can vary.

Luteal phase

The luteal phase follows ovulation and lasts around 12-14 days. After the egg is released, the follicle that held it transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone is essential for maintaining the endometrium, preparing it for implantation of a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum breaks down, causing a drop in hormone levels, and the body prepares to shed the lining of the uterus in the next menstrual phase.

Lengths of cycles

It is worth noting that not every woman experiences a perfect 28-day cycle, with ovulation occurring on day 14. Some women may have cycles that are shorter or longer than this, or ovulation may occur earlier or later in the cycle. Factors such as stress, illness, and changes in weight can also affect the length and regularity of a menstrual cycle.

Understanding the menstrual cycle is not only crucial for reproductive health, but it can also help you to identify potential health issues. Irregular periods or issues such as heavy bleeding or severe cramping can signal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or infections.

The menstrual cycle is a complex and vital process in the female body, controlled by a delicate balance of hormones. It can vary in length and regularity, but understanding the different phases can help to identify and manage potential health issues.