Menstruation Cycle: Phases, Period Cycle, and Common Period Problems

You might already believe that your menstrual cycle lasts for a certain number of days. Perhaps you have a five or seven-day cycle. It is different for every person. When it comes to menstrual cycle phases or period phases, there is more than what meets the eye. Factors such as hormonal imbalances can affect your bodily functions. So, it is in your best interest to understand how these changes occur.

1. What Is A Menstrual Cycle?
2. What Are The Phases Of Menstrual Cycle
3. Phase 1 - Menstrual Phase
4. Phase 2- Follicular Phase
5. Phase 3 - Ovulation Phase
6. Phase 4 - Luteal Phase
7. Common Menstrual Problems

This is the first stage of the menstrual cycle when you get your period. It’s also called the menses stage. In this phase, there is a reduction in the levels of the two hormones, progesterone and oestrogen. Read more about normal vs abnormal menstrual cycle here.

When: This phase begins if and when an egg is not fertilised in the previous cycle.

What: This phase involves shedding of unwanted tissue cells including old blood and mucus which is discharged through your vagina.

• Tender breasts

• Cramps

• Irritation

• Headaches

• Low back pain

• Mood swings

• Bloating

Try doing some relaxing yoga, get a massage or go for a long walk. Also, make sure to use the best period protection like the ALWAYS Maxi Thick Pads . It has unique anti-leakage barriers which provide maximum coverage. Besides, it’s also armed with an extra absorbent core and high flexi wings which easily soaks the discharge and keeps your pad in place. In case you love using a tampon, try out the ALWAYS TAMPAX Cardboard Tampons. Its innovative absorbent core locks the discharge and enables you to move freely. Additionally, its protective skirt minimises the risk of leakage and the anti-slip grip enables a smooth insertion.

Following your menses, this follicular phase is the next stage of your period cycle. It overlaps with the menstrual phase and ends when you ovulate. During the follicular phase, the pituitary gland releases a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn stimulates the ovaries. The ovaries are then directed to produce small sacs known as follicles. Every follicle contains one immature egg, out of which the healthiest one can mature into an embryo. In addition, there’s an increase in the estrogen levels in the body and the lining of the uterus thickens. This function takes place to create a favourable environment in which the embryo can develop and be nurtured.

When: The follicular phase begins on the first day of your period.

What: In the follicular phase, the uterus lining thickens and the follicle-stimulating hormone prepares for an egg to be released.

• Higher energy levels

• Higher libido

• Glowing skin

The process of ovulation begins due to a rise in estrogen levels. There is a spike in estrogen during the follicular phase, which, in turn, triggers the pituitary gland to release the luteinising hormone (ovulation stimulant). It is this hormonal release that triggers the ovulation phase. The mature egg is released, and it travels in the direction of the uterus to be fertilised by a sperm.

Read more about 5 signs of ovulation period here. Read about 5 signs to know ovulation is over.

When: Typically, this stage of the menstrual cycle occurs roughly on day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle.

What: In this phase a mature egg travels through the ovary into the fallopian tube.

• Increase in cervical mucus

• Chart your cycle

• Track your body basal temperature

• Ovulation predictor kits

• Thick white vaginal discharge

• Increase in body temperature

Try out Always Ovulation Calendar or over-the-counter ovulation kits which can help you figure your fertile days. Likewise, using panty liners for your vaginal discharge is recommended. Try out the ALWAYS Daily Liners Multiform Panty Liners which are mildly scent and designed with breathable materials to provide a comfortable fit. Additionally, they are thinner than 1mm and their secure-fit technology allows you worry-free movement.

The luteal phase happens due to the release of progesterone and oestrogen that facilitate the thickening of the uterine lining. In the case of pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This is the hormone that maintains the lining of the uterine and is used to detect a pregnancy. If no pregnancy is detected, the developed corpus luteum will dissolve. This function causes a spike in the levels of progesterone and oestrogen.

When: This phase of the menstrual cycle occurs after ovulation and up to your next period.

What: Your uterus is ready for the implantation of a fertilised egg.

The luteal phase can last for anywhere from 11 days to 17 days.

If you don’t get pregnant, you would experience PMS symptoms like:

• Mood swings

• Bloating

• Tender breasts

• Breast pain

• Weight gain

• Food cravings

While we’ve got a clear understanding of the various stages of the menstrual cycle, it’s essential to know about the menstrual problems that come along the way. So, here are some of the common menstrual problems that you should keep a note of:

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Abnormal bleeding
• Dysmenorrhea (Painful periods)
• Oligomenorrhea (Light periods)
• Amenorrhea (Missed periods)
• Menorrhagia (Heavy periods)

A menstrual cycle and its duration can change during certain periods of your life. It is best to keep a track of your periods to steer clear of any possible issues with your menstrual cycle and overall health. If you notice any unusual bodily changes, you must consult your doctor immediately.

It is better to understand the factors that influence your periods, as it can help you manage that time of the month better. The menstrual cycle is divided into several period phases, each of which is regulated by hormonal activities. Various aspects of day-to-day life and health play a role in ensuring a regular cycle. If you track these on a menstrual cycle chart it can give you great insights into how various elements impact your cycle and general well-being.

If there is anything that can significantly disrupt your period phases, it is stress. Stress not only affects your hormonal balance but also regulates ovulation and menstruation. Chronic stress may cause irregular periods or missed cycles. This is why you must incorporate stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation into your routine.

You must focus on adequate nutrition if you want to maintain a healthy menstrual cycle. If your diet includes processed food, then it can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to irregular periods. You must ensure you have a balanced diet of vegetables, whole grains and fruits if you want regular cycles.

Exercising excessively and insufficiently can both affect your menstrual cycle phases. If you participate in physical activity, then it can lead to menstrual irregularities or even amenorrhea, meanwhile, moderate exercise can promote hormonal balance. If you track your activity levels on a menstrual cycle chart, you can stay a step ahead of irregularities.

A host of medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues and endometriosis, can impact the menstrual cycle. PCOS leads to irregular or absent periods, meanwhile endometriosis can cause painful menstruation. Thyroid imbalances can lead to infrequent or frequent periods. You must consult with a healthcare provider to manage and treat these issues.

Keeping track of your menstrual cycle can give you insights into your overall health and keep you abreast of your body’s needs. If you figure out menstrual cycle phases, you can potentially identify phases and make informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare.

It pays to track your menstrual cycle. You can experience benefits such as a sharp increase in awareness of the various menstrual cycle phases. The more aware you are of your body, the more you can predict your periods, manage PMS and recognise symptoms. It can also help to identify irregularities that might indicate underlying health issues.

There are many apps available that make period tracking easier. However, we recommend checking out the Always Period Calculator, it is efficient, easy-to-use and accurate. These apps provide personalised insights by analysing data across different menstrual cycle phases.

Knowing when to seek medical advice is optimal when it comes to your reproductive health. Certain variations in the phases of menstrual cycle are normal, some symptoms may indicate underlying health issues requiring professional attention.

Understanding when to seek medical advice regarding your period is essential for maintaining reproductive health. While certain variations in the phases of the menstrual cycle are normal, some symptoms may indicate underlying health issues requiring professional attention.

If your menstrual cycles are irregular consistently, that is, they are deviating from the typical 21 to 35-day range, it is wise to consult a doctor. Irregularities across different phases of menstrual cycle can be because of hormonal imbalances or PCOS.

When you have heavy or prolonged bleeding, you need to change your sanitary products every single hour. If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding, you will need to change your sanitary product every hour, or your period will last longer than seven days.

Experiencing heavy or prolonged bleeding, where you need to change sanitary products every hour, or your period lasts longer than seven days, warrants medical evaluation. This could point to various conditions affecting the menstrual cycle phases, such as fibroids or hormonal disorders, and requires appropriate treatment.

Mild cramps are incredibly common during certain period phases, severe pain is not. It can disrupt daily activities and is not typical and should be investigated. Conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease could affect the phases of your menstrual cycle and cause you discomfort.

If you happen to miss your periods and you are not pregnant, then it could indicate health issues such as thyroid disorders or even stress. However, if you consistently miss periods, a healthcare professional can help identify the cause and suggest interventions you need.

Understanding your menstrual cycle is more than just counting days—it’s about tuning into your body’s natural rhythms. Each phase of the cycle plays a vital role in your reproductive health, and being aware of them empowers you to make informed lifestyle and healthcare choices. Remember, if something feels off, it’s always okay to seek medical guidance. Tracking your cycle, staying informed, and prioritizing your well-being can go a long way in supporting a healthy, balanced life.