A subject that lies close to my heart as I have had a good 4 (!) years of no menstrual cycle at all. That’s not healthy, and not normal. But I only learned that afterwards, when it started to come back, it’s a long story that I will still write about. It lead me down the rabbit hole of cycle-research and I have become an activist for sharing cycle-knowledge and stories. As the Menstrual Cycle is still too misunderstood and too much of a taboo. Here’s a 101 as a reminder or, for some it might even be new.
The menstrual cycle is a natural process that prepares the body for pregnancy each month. It is typically about 28 days long, though it can range from 21 to 35 days. The cycle is divided into four main phases: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Let’s break down what happens in each phase, using a 28-day cycle. (in reality, a little variety is fine and normal!)
Menstrual Phase (Days 1–7)
Follicular Phase (Days 1–13)
Ovulation Phase (Day 14, approximately)
Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
It’s my belief that if you are a person who is menstruating, understanding your cycle is crucial for optimal (mental and physical) health. It is a vital sign and being able to flow with it, not against it, can change your life. It did so for me.