Are we really going to NOT talk about the importance of the MENSTRUAL CYCLE on women’s health?
Nope — not here. Here we talk about it… A LOT. For a better part of a female’s life or cyclical being’s life they will experience the menstrual cycle. First off I’d like to mention that not everyone who experiences a menstrual cycle identifies as a female or a women and that is totally alright — I’ll mostly be referring to those of us in the world who do experience menstrual cycles as ‘Cyclical Beings’. Okay so now that we know who experiences a menstrual cycle lets get into the nitty & gritty parts of the basic breakdown of the MENSTRUAL CYCLE.
The menstrual cycle is a natural, biological process that happens in ‘Cyclical Being’s’ bodies each month. It is important to understand this cycle, as it can affect your overall health, fertility, and well-being. In this post, we will discuss the basics of the menstrual cycle, including what it is, how it works, and what changes you can expect during each phase.
What is the Menstrual Cycle?
The menstrual cycle is a monthly cycle of changes that happens in a cyclical being’s reproductive system. It is controlled by the hormones in the body, and its main purpose is to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the uterus sheds its lining, which is what causes menstruation (commonly known as a period).
How Does it Work?
The menstrual cycle is divided into four phases: the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase, the luteal phase, and menstruation.
Menstruation: The menstrual phase is the first phase of the menstrual cycle and starts on the first day of bleeding. It occurs when the uterus sheds its lining, which is made up of blood and tissue. Menstruation usually lasts for around 3-7 days, but can vary from individual to individual. During this phase, the uterus sheds its lining, and blood and tissue flow out of the vagina. This phase is considered the ‘inner winter’ because our energy typically is being pulled inward; Our bodies and mind tend to crave rest, rehabilitation, warm and comforting foods, extra sleep, less social activities etc… Basically we are prompted to go into a mini hibernation.
Follicular Phase: The follicular phase starts on the first day after the cessation of bleeding and lasts until ovulation. During this phase, the pituitary gland in the brain releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of several follicles in the ovaries. These follicles contain immature eggs, and as they grow, they produce estrogen, which thickens the uterine lining. Eventually, one dominant follicle will continue to grow and mature until it is ready for ovulation. This phase is considered the ‘inner spring’. Energy levels and hormonal levels begin to rise after their lowest levels that take place during the previous phase — menstruation. This is a great time to start increasing your daily activities — from social & work planning to your exercise routines.
Ovulatory Phase: This is the third phase of the menstrual cycle and it occurs around day 14 (this is dependent of you as an individual & changes). During this phase, the mature follicle ruptures and releases the egg, which travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. This process is called ovulation and is triggered by a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. The egg is viable for around 24 hours and can be fertilized by sperm during this time. This is the time when a cyclical being is most fertile and has the highest chance of becoming pregnant. Which is actually the only time a cyclical being can become pregnant is within this window of ovulation — but remember sperm are viable for up to 5 days so there could be a chance of impregnation if sperm was received 5 days prior to ovulation. This phase is your ‘inner summer’ as your hormonal and energy levels are at their peak. This is a great time to be social, increase exercise intensity and put yourself out there!
Luteal Phase: This is the fourth phase of the menstrual cycle and it occurs after ovulation. During this phase, the ruptured follicle in the ovary forms a structure called the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. This hormone helps thicken the uterine lining further and prepares it for implantation of a fertilized egg.If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, leading to the start of menstruation. This phase marks the steady decline of several hormones in your body and typically the rise of progesterone in the first half of this phase. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, and progesterone levels drop, triggering the start of a new menstrual cycle. If fertilization does occur, the developing embryo will secrete hormones that maintain the corpus luteum and prevent the start of a new menstrual cycle. This phase is considered your ‘inner fall’ as your body is preparing for its winter phase (menstruation). This is a great time to focus on medium intensity workouts, highly nutritional food, avoiding products that may exacerbate PMS symptoms, and setting yourself up for a successful menstruation coming up next.
What Changes Can You Expect?
Throughout the menstrual cycle, women may experience a variety of changes. These can include:
- Changes in cervical mucus: As ovulation approaches, the cervix produces more mucus to help sperm travel to the egg.
- Changes in basal body temperature: The body’s temperature may increase slightly during ovulation and remain elevated during the luteal phase.
- Changes in mood: Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can cause mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
- Changes in energy levels: Some individuals may feel more tired or sluggish during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.
It’s important to keep track of these changes and note any abnormalities, as they can be indicators of underlying health issues.
Conclusion
The menstrual cycle is a complex process that involves various hormones, organs, and physiological changes in the female or ‘cyclical’ body. It usually lasts around 28 days, but can vary between 21-35 days in length. The menstrual cycle is a natural and important process in a cyclical being’s body. By understanding the basics of the menstrual cycle, individuals can better manage their health and well-being. If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or reproductive health, speak with your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
If you want to learn more about how to best utilize your menstrual cycle to help you reach your health and wellness goals I am here to help you! You can visit my ‘Coaching & Training’ page or hit me up on instagram! I’d love to chat more about how my Strong & Cyclical Strength Training Method can positively impact your life, fitness, health, wellness, and happiness.
