Exploring the seasons of your cycle (Part 1 / 5)
The phases of the menstrual cycle
In this 5-part series, we break down the different phases of the menstrual cycle and explore the role played by your hormones.
You may already be familiar with how the circadian rhythm affects your energy levels during the day. Are you also aware of how your hormones affect key bodily functions such as your metabolism, reproduction, mood and sleep cycles? The male hormonal cycle is a 24-hour one whereas the female hormonal cycle typically runs for between 28 - 32 days.
The hormones produced by the menstrual cycle act as the body’s chemical messengers. They travel around your bloodstream, telling your tissues and organs what to do and when. Hundreds of hormones circulate in your bloodstream at any one time. Insulin, oestrogen, testosterone, and cortisol are examples of key hormones in the body. You’ll find that the level and concentration of many hormones will fluctuate depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle and even on the time of day.
Most people think of their menstrual cycle only through the lens of their period but this is just one part (albeit very important). The menstrual cycle is actually made up of 4 key phases as in the image above.
One easy way to keep track of where you are in your menstrual cycle and of the changes you are likely to experience is to compare the phases to the seasons of the year:
Winter - Menstrual Phase
Spring - Follicular Phase
Summer - Ovulation Phase
Autumn (Fall) - Luteal Phase
Doing so makes it easier to anticipate and recognise shifts in ourselves. It also helps us to plan for and adapt our different activities over the course of our cycle, thereby supporting our overall wellbeing.
In the remaining parts of this series, we delve deeper into the different seasons and what you can expect from each of them.
You can find out more about the menstrual cycle, including tips and tools for tracking and getting familiar with your natural rhythm in our period journal Girlhood: The Story for girls aged 8 - 14 and our health and wellbeing journal for adults Sisterhood: The Journal.
