Women’s menstrual cycle

The female menstrual cycle is a complex biological process that varies from woman to woman. Understanding each stage of this cycle can help to better manage symptoms and maintain good reproductive health. We’ll explore the different phases of the menstrual cycle, their main characteristics and practical advice on how to deal with them effectively.

The different phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle

The female menstrual cycle can be broken down into several distinct phases. Each phase is characterised by specific physical and hormonal changes.

Menstrual phase: the periods

The menstrual phase marks the start of the menstrual cycle. It generally lasts between 3 and 7 days. During this period, the uterus expels the uterine lining in the form of bleeding, commonly known as menstruation.

During this phase, some women may experience menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhoea. These pains can vary from moderate to severe and include headaches, abdominal cramps and lower back pain.

Follicular phase

This follows immediately after the menstrual phase and lasts untilovulation. This phase usually lasts from 11 to 21 days. During this period, the hormones LH (luteinising) and FSH (follicle stimulating) stimulate the maturation of the ovarian follicles.

An increase in oestrogen takes place during this phase, preparing the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy. Some signs include brighter skin and less bloating.

Ovulation

Ovulation generally occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. At this stage, an ovary releases a mature egg ready for fertilisation. A sudden rise in LH triggers this release.

It is common to feel a slight pain or discomfort called Mittelschmerz, as well as increases in basal body temperature.

Luteal phase

This phase lasts for around 14 days after ovulation. If the egg is not fertilised, it degenerates and is absorbed by the body. Progesterone and oestrogen levels fall, leading to the next menstrual phase.

PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms such asirritability, tender breasts and bloating may appear during this phase.

Common menstrual cycle symptoms

Many women experience a variety of symptoms throughout their menstrual cycle. Here are the most common:

• Headaches: Influenced by hormonal fluctuations.
• Menstrual pain: Abdominal cramps often felt during periods.
• Bloating: The result of water retention.
• Irritability: Mood changes due to hormonal variations.
• Sore breasts: Tenderness and tenderness of the breasts caused by the increase in oestrogen.

Managing menstrual symptoms

There are a number of ways to manage the discomforts associated with the menstrual cycle. Some strategies include lifestyle changes, while others require medical intervention.

Lifestyle changes

Modifying certain aspects of your daily life can significantly reduce unpleasant symptoms. Here are a few suggestions:

• Regular exercise: Improves blood circulation and reduces cramps.
• Balanced diet: Reduce salt intake to avoid bloating.
• Adequate hydration: Drink plenty of water to reduce water retention.
• Stress management: Techniques such as meditation or yoga.

Medical interventions

In some cases, medical treatment may be necessary:

• Use of ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain.
• Use of hormonal contraceptives to stabilise cycles and reduce symptoms.
• Regional consultations with a healthcare professional for more serious situations.

Menstrual cycle and fertility

The menstrual cycle plays a crucial role in fertility. Knowing your own cycle helps you to identify periods of maximum fertility.

Monitoring ovulation

Several methods can be used to monitorovulation:

• Basal body temperature graphs: Daily recordings to detect ovulation.
• Ovulation kits: Urine test to detect LH levels.
• Observation of cervical mucus: Change in consistency indicating ovulation.

Fertile period

The days before and just afterovulation are the most fertile. Planning sexual intercourse around these periods increases the chances of conception. Cycle-tracking applications can offer additional assistance in predicting these dates.

Irregular menstrual cycle

Not all women have a 28-day menstrual cycle; some cycles can be irregular. This can be the result of a variety of factors including stress, underlying medical conditions, or natural hormonal fluctuations.

Possible causes

There are many reasons for irregular cycles. They may include :

• Thyroid problems: Affecting hormone production.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Causes anovulatory cycles.
• Stress and anxiety: Involved in hormonal disturbances.
• Significant weight loss: Impacts on female hormones.

When to consult a doctor

It may be advisable to seek medical advice if irregularities persist or are accompanied by intolerable pain. A gynaecologist may prescribe further tests to determine the underlying cause.

Emotional impact of the menstrual cycle

In addition to the physical symptoms, the menstrual cycle also influences the emotional state. Periods of depression, anxiety or irritability are frequently reported.

Physiological mechanisms

Hormonal fluctuations have a direct influence on mood. For example, the drop in serotonin in the days leading up to menstruation can trigger feelings of sadness.

Coping strategies

Remaining aware of these changes helps you to deal with them more effectively:

• Talking to a therapist: Having sessions to discuss the emotions you are feeling.
• Practising relaxation techniques: Including deep breathing and meditation.
• Keeping a diary: To identify recurring emotional patterns.