What They Didn’t Teach You in School About Your Menstrual Cycle
- Anika Barua
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
A taboo in most of the world, and a struggle that almost every woman has to deal with, the two to five day long period of menstruation is something that most women dread each month. However, what many women don’t know and aren’t often taught is that there are four phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle, and during all four phases, women’s bodies change significantly. Understanding these four phases and how they impact our bodies is critical in managing overall health and self-care.
The Menstrual Phase
The phase that most people are familiar with, the menstrual phase, consists of bleeding, pain, mood swings, and overall misery. During these 2-5 days, the lining of a woman’s uterus sheds, causing contractions that typically result in lower abdomen and back pain. Though it is difficult, during this time, it’s important to eat foods rich in iron, such as leafy greens or red meat, due to the quantity of blood being lost. Foods such as dark chocolate, ginger, and whole grains are also known to ease period symptoms. Lastly, shedding the uterine lining is an extremely tiring process, so it is important to relax and avoid being excessively stressed as much as possible during menstruation.
The Follicular Phase
Finally, your period is over, and your estrogen levels are increasing! The follicular phase usually lasts around eight days. Women usually feel more energized during the follicular phase. During this phase, cardiovascular exercise is healthy and will likely be easier due to increased energy levels. It also helps to stick to an overall healthy diet during the follicular phase.
The Ovulation Phase
During the ovulation phase, a woman is the most fertile. Ovulation may result in minor cramping and abdominal pain and higher energy levels. A diet consisting of lean protein, non-starchy vegetables, and complex carbohydrates is beneficial during this phase.
The Luteal Phase
In the luteal phase, progesterone is released, which usually results in lower energy levels. Symptoms of the luteal phase also include increased appetite, PMS, cravings, and bloating. It is important during the luteal phase to drink lots of water and prioritize sufficient rest.
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