Your menstrual cycle

Let’s break it down into simple, easy-to-understand phases:

1. Menstrual Phase 

• This is when your period starts, and your uterus is shedding its lining
• Hormones are low, so you might feel a bit tired or crave rest and that’s okay!
• It’s a good time to relax and focus on self-care

2. Follicular Phase 

• After your period, your body starts building energy
• Hormones like estrogen rise, helping your body get ready for ovulation
• You might feel more creative and motivated, perfect for starting new things!

3. Ovulation Phase 

• Around the middle of your cycle, your body releases an egg
• You might feel extra energetic, confident, or even flirty because hormones like estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) are at their highest!
• This is the time to enjoy feeling your best!

4. Luteal Phase 

• After ovulation, your body prepares for the next period if there’s no pregnancy
• Hormones like progesterone increase, which might make you feel calmer or crave comfort
• It’s a good time to finish tasks and focus on things that make you happy

What’s happening inside: the biological side

Each phase of your cycle is powered by hormones. During the menstrual phase, low levels of estrogen and progesterone cause the uterine lining to shed. In the follicular phase, estrogen rises, helping follicles in your ovaries grow and get ready for ovulation. Around ovulation, a hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH) spikes, releasing an egg. The luteal phase kicks in next, with progesterone rising to prepare your body for a potential pregnancy. Understanding these changes helps you know what’s happening in your body and why!