Let's look at how the menstrual cycle works and what happens physiologically in a woman's body ✅
The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation, thus overlapping to some extent with the menstrual phase. It lasts approximately 13 to 14 days and ends with ovulation.
👉 The pituitary gland in the brain releases a hormone that stimulates the production of follicles on the surface of the ovary (follicle-stimulating hormone = FSH). FSH from the pituitary activates the ovaries to begin producing follicles, fluid-filled sacs where eggs can mature.
One of the follicles always begins to develop a little faster than the others, becoming the so-called dominant follicle. As it matures, the egg located inside also matures.
At the same time, estrogen is released, which helps thicken the uterine lining in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
Increased estrogen triggers a drop in FSH, causing other follicles to die off and be reabsorbed into the body. Meanwhile, the egg inside the dominant follicle reaches full maturity.
The ovulatory phase follows the follicular phase.
With peak estrogen levels, LH (luteinizing hormone) is released, leading to the release of an egg from the dominant follicle = ovulation. The released egg travels along the fallopian tube towards the uterus.
Ovulation usually occurs around the middle of the cycle, which is day 14 in the common example of a 28-day cycle.
✅ What about getting pregnant during ovulation?
Although the egg remains ready for fertilization in the female body for only a few hours (approximately 12-24), male sperm can survive in the female body for several days and wait for the moment the egg is fertilized. The so-called fertile window, during which you can get pregnant, is counted as 3-7 days before ovulation and 1 day after ovulation.
After ovulation, the hormones FSH and LH cause the remaining parts of the dominant follicle to transform into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum begins to produce hormones, especially progesterone and, to a lesser extent, estrogen. 📈
It is the release of progesterone that leads to an increase in basal body temperature. Its other role in this phase is to keep the lining thick and ready for the implantation and development of a fertilized egg.
If the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone, which maintains the thickened uterine lining. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum dies, progesterone and estrogen levels drop, and menstruation begins.
After ovulation, the hormones FSH and LH cause the remaining parts of the dominant follicle to transform into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum begins to produce hormones, especially progesterone and, to a lesser extent, estrogen. 📈
It is the release of progesterone that leads to an increase in basal body temperature. Its other role in this phase is to keep the lining thick and ready for the implantation and development of a fertilized egg.
If the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone, which maintains the thickened uterine lining. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum dies, progesterone and estrogen levels drop, and menstruation begins.
With the drop in estrogen and progesterone hormones comes the menstrual phase.
Menstruation is the period during which part of the uterine lining, which was prepared for the fertilized egg, sheds. The average duration of menstruation is 3-7 days. Menstrual fluid contains blood, mucus, and some cells from the uterine lining. 🩸
This phase begins a new cycle, hormones begin to be released, and other follicles with an egg gradually develop for a new chance of conception.
Do you want to learn how to track your cycle and thus better understand your body? Get our practical webinar on the Sympto-Thermal Method and cycle tracking. ✨ The webinar is available immediately after purchase, and you'll receive a presentation and downloadable notes.
Femvie products that can help you
We have selected products related to this topic that can support your health:
- 🌿 Organic pads — certified organic pads without chemicals
- 🌿 Organic tampons — organic tampons made from certified organic cotton
- 💊 Magnesium — helps relieve cramps and tension before menstruation
- 🩹 Menstrual patches — natural relief from painful menstruation
- 📦 Carefree subscription — your organic menstrual products automatically every month
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a normal period last?
A healthy period lasts 3 to 7 days. If you bleed longer or for a shorter period repeatedly, consult a gynecologist.
Why is menstruation painful?
Menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins—substances that contract the uterine muscles. Magnesium, heat, exercise, or natural patches can help.
Are organic pads and tampons safer?
Yes. Organic cotton products do not contain pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals commonly found in conventional menstrual products.
What affects the regularity of the menstrual cycle?
Stress, diet, exercise, sleep, and hormonal balance—all of these affect the length and regularity of the cycle. Cycle tracking can help you identify patterns and potential deviations.
