Let’s Talk About the Phases of your Menstrual Cycle

While all menstruators are aware of their periods, a lot of us still do not know about the four phases of the menstrual cycle. The four phases are the following: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, the ovulation phase, and the luteal phase. Each phase differs in length depending on the menstruator.

The Menstrual Phase

The period falls under the menstrual phase. This phase begins when an egg from the previous cycle is not fertilized and thus levels of estrogen and progesterone drop. The thickened lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina. The average menstrual phase lasts for around 3-7 days.

The Follicular Phase

The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period and ends when ovulation starts. The follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the ovaries to produce 5-20 sacs, also called follicles, that each contain an immature egg. The healthiest egg will mature while the rest are absorbed into the body. The maturing follicle increases the levels of estrogen that thickens the uterus lining and creates a nutrient-rich environment for an embryo to grow. The follicular phase can last anywhere from 11-27 days but on average lasts for about 16.

The Ovulation Phase

The ovulation phase is caused by the rising estrogen levels during the follicular phase which then triggers the release of luteinizing hormone (LH). The process of ovulation is when the ovary releases a mature egg that travels down the fallopian tube toward the uterus to be fertilized by sperm. Ovulation occurs around the 14th day of a 28 day cycle and lasts for about 24 hours. If the egg is not fertilized within that time, it will die or dissolve.

The Luteal Phase

After the follicle releases the egg, it becomes the corpus luteum and releases hormones like estrogen and progesterone that keeps the uterine lining thick. If there is a pregnancy, the body will produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) which is the chemical detected by pregnancy tests. If there is no pregnancy, the corpus luteum will be resorbed and hormone levels will decrease, causing the onset of the period. The luteal phase usually lasts for 14 days but can range anywhere from 11-17.

References

Watson, Stephanie. “Stages of Menstrual Cycle: Menstruation, Ovulation, Hormones, Mor.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 29 Mar. 2019, www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/stages-of-menstrual-cycle.