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Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is a monthly process where your body prepares for pregnancy. It's controlled by hormones including estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH. Understanding your cycle helps you predict periods, plan pregnancies, and identify potential health issues early.
The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
- Menstruation (Days 1-5) — The uterine lining sheds. This is your period. Average duration is 3-7 days.
- Follicular Phase (Days 1-13) — Overlaps with menstruation. FSH stimulates follicle growth in the ovaries. Estrogen rises, thickening the uterine lining.
- Ovulation (Day 14) — LH surge triggers egg release. The egg is viable for 12-24 hours. This is the time of peak fertility.
- Luteal Phase (Days 15-28) — Progesterone dominates. If no fertilization occurs, hormone levels drop, triggering the next period.
What Is a Normal Period?
A normal menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. Periods typically last 3-7 days with 30-80ml of blood loss. Cycles can vary by a few days each month — variation of up to 7 days is considered normal. If your cycles are consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35, consult a healthcare provider.
When to See a Doctor
- Periods longer than 7 days or extremely heavy flow (soaking a pad/tampon hourly)
- Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days consistently
- Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
- Missed periods for 3+ months (when not pregnant)
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
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