Chapter 1 of 3
The Menstrual Cycle
Chapter 1 of 3
The Menstrual Cycle
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Different Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
It can be commonly mistaken that the 'menstrual cycle' only refers to the days when a woman gets her period.
In fact, the menstrual cycle consists of several phases that all work together to prepare the body for pregnancy.
It can be commonly mistaken that the 'menstrual cycle' only refers to the days when a woman gets her period.
In fact, the menstrual cycle consists of several phases that all work together to prepare the body for pregnancy.
The menstrual phase begins on the first day of your period, as the uterus sheds its lining through the vagina if pregnancy hasn't occurred.
Menstruation marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle.
Following menstruation, the follicular phase starts. This is when ovarian follicles grow, preparing to release an egg. High levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) kick off this growth.
As the phase progresses, a dominant follicle emerges, leading to increased levels of oestrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH), crucial for ovulation.
Ovulation marks the midpoint of the menstrual cycle when a mature egg is released from the ovary.
During ovulation, the mature egg is released and travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus, where it can be fertilised by sperm.
The egg is viable for approximately 12-24 hours after ovulation.
Fertility is at its highest when ovulation occurs, with symptoms like a slight rise in basal body temperature and thicker discharge resembling egg whites.
After ovulation, the luteal phase begins, where the empty follicle transforms into the corpus luteum. This structure releases hormones, primarily progesterone, to maintain the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.
If no conception occurs, hormone levels drop. This signals the start of the premenstrual (PMS) phase and soon leads to menstruation, repeating the cycle.
We have covered how the menstrual cycle consists of four key phases: the menstrual phase, followed by the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. This forms a continuous cycle, repeating back to menstruation if conception does not occur.
Tracking fertility becomes more manageable with a clearer understanding of the fertility window and the menstrual cycle. In the next chapter, we'll explore various tools to assist us on this part of our fertility journey.