A Simple Overview of the Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Growing up, I thought a period was a period. However, later on I started to investigate further, tune in to my body and realised there were the four phases of the menstrual cycle. What are they? Glad you asked! Here is a simple overview of the four phases of the menstrual cycle.

 

The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

The process of having a period happens on average of once every 28 days, although this can vary from woman to women. The correct name for this process is the menstrual cycle and the discharging of blood is called menstruating. Following are four phases of the menstrual cycle and a brief explanation of each phase.

Phase 1: The Menstruation (Bleeding) Phase –

The menstruation phase is the beginning of the menstrual cycle. If the body has not conceived (or had a fertilised  egg implanted), the uterus lining is eliminated (i.e. through bleeding / period). The lasts between 3-7 days (as all women are unique). During this phase, women may experience a range of symptoms including cravings, lower back aches and fatigue.

Phase 2: The Follicular Phase –

This phase starts the day bleeding stops up until ovulation. In the follicular phase, the ovaries are being prepared to release another egg. This phase lasts approximately 7-10 days.

Phase 3: The Ovulatory Phase –

The ovulation phase of the menstrual cycle is the shortest phase and lasts better 2-4 days. It is the stage where your body releases an egg for fertilisation (which is great if you are wanting to have a baby).

Phase 4: The Luteal Phase –

The final phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase. This phase lasts between 10-14 days. If the egg is not fertilised, a period occurs. This might be the time you experience pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms of PMS include cramping, headaches, bloating, irritability and cravings.

 

Over to You…

I hope this post has given you some insight in to the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Do you have any questions? If so, leave them below? You may also like to track your phases menstrual cycle over time, so you can develop awareness of your body, emotions and energy during these phases. Personally, that is one of the reasons I created the slow down and tune in journal, so I can monitor my cycle over the month.

 

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