Quick Overview on Your Hormonal Cycle

Your Hormonal Cycle

Think of your menstrual cycle as your body’s natural rhythm—a monthly symphony involving your brain, ovaries, and uterus. While the average cycle lasts 28 days, it can range from 25-35 days (because, hey, we’re all unique). The cycle length is measured from the first day of bleeding in one cycle (CD1, cycle day 1) to the first day of bleeding in a subsequent cycle.

There are two main phases of the menstrual cycle, the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the onset of the next menstrual period. For ease of understanding, we will break out our four phases as: menstruation, follicular, and ovulation, followed by luteal!

• Menstruation: Getting your period is actually the first day of your cycle, kicking off the process.

• Follicular: Estrogen levels rise, promoting increased energy, improved mood, and enhanced glucose availability and uptake.

• Ovulation: Due to a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) production, this is peak performance time—your body is ready to shine.

• Luteal: Slow down and recharge; it’s all about balance here. If fertilization doesn’t occur, hormone levels drop.

By living in sync with our cycle, it provides a better baseline of how our hormones impacts our bodies and minds throughout the month.