Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle

A complete guide to the phases, symptoms, and tracking methods

What is the Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle is a natural process that prepares your body for a potential pregnancy each month. Understanding your cycle helps you manage your health better and recognize what's normal for you.

Average Cycle Length

A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days, with 28 days being the average. Everyone's cycle is unique, and variations are completely normal.

The Four Phases of Your Cycle

Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)

This is your period. The lining of your uterus (endometrium) sheds and flows out of the vagina.

Common symptoms:
  • Bleeding and cramps
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Mood changes
  • Headaches or migraines
Illustration of the menstrual phase

Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)

Your body prepares for ovulation. Follicles in your ovaries mature, and estrogen levels rise.

Signs and feelings:
  • Rising energy levels
  • Improved mood
  • Clearer skin
  • Increase in libido
Illustration of the follicular phase

Ovulation (Day 14)

A mature egg is released from the ovary. This is your most fertile time.

Signs and feelings:
  • Slight rise in body temperature
  • Clear, stretchy cervical mucus
  • Mild pelvic pain (Mittelschmerz)
  • Increased sex drive
Illustration of ovulation

Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

After ovulation, progesterone rises to maintain the uterine lining. If pregnancy doesn't occur, hormone levels drop.

PMS symptoms:
  • Premenstrual symptoms (PMS)
  • Tender breasts
  • Bloating
  • Mood swings
Illustration of the luteal phase

Common Symptoms Throughout Your Cycle

Physical Symptoms

  • Cramps and abdominal pain
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headaches
  • Bloating
  • Acne breakouts
  • Changes in appetite

Emotional Symptoms

  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Low mood
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in libido

When to See a Doctor

  • Periods lasting longer than 7 days
  • Very heavy bleeding
  • Severe pain
  • Irregular cycles
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Missing a period for 3+ months

How to Track Your Cycle

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Digital Tracking

Use period tracking apps to log your symptoms, predict your cycles, and identify patterns. Popular options include:

  • Clue
  • Flo
  • Period Tracker
  • Natural Cycles
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Manual Tracking

Keep a journal or calendar to note:

  • Start and end dates
  • Flow intensity
  • Symptoms
  • Mood changes
  • Physical activity