Exploring the seasons of your cycle (Part 4 / 5)
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? For insight into where the Ovulation Phase fits into your overall cycle, please refer to our earlier post on the topic: Part 1.
Summer (Ovulation Phase)
You are approaching the halfway point and oestrogen should peak (around day 12 in a 28-day cycle), combining with testosterone and the luteinising hormone to trigger ovulation. You may notice that you feel and look good, and now is the perfect time to socialise or put yourself out there. Your confidence and communication skills will be at their highest, thanks to testosterone, which plays a role at this time.
Now is when you may lean more into your inner extrovert before you feel more like retreating, in Autumn and Winter. After the natural high of ovulation (around day 12), hormone levels will start to dip again, and mood and energy levels usually follow. However, testosterone and progesterone continue to surge, so you might notice an increase in appetite and excess oil on the skin, which can lead to breakouts and higher sensitivity.
Some top tips for Summer:
Meet up with some friends and plan something a little different. Now is when you feel your most adventurous, so take advantage of it!
Got an important meeting or interview? Try to schedule it in your Summer period when you’ll be feeling your best.
Towards the end of summer, you may want to take specific notice of how you feel during your transition into Autumn, as this can be a sensitive time.
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.
