Menstrual Cycle 101: Decoding the Phases
- by WONDERMOM
- Nov. 1, 2023
Ladies, and curious gents too, welcome to the masterclass: Menstrual Cycle 101! If you’ve ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes magic of a woman’s body every month, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s unravel the mystery of the menstrual cycle, one phase at a time. And for all the mums reading this, imagine the smiles when you explain this to your child as a ‘monthly body magic’ story!
Phase 1: Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
Let the Show Begin!
It all starts here. If the egg from the previous cycle hasn’t been fertilized, the body decides it’s showtime! This is when a woman has her period. The lining of the uterus, which had been thickening in the hope of a fertilized egg, starts to shed. This is expelled as menstrual blood.
Phase 2: Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)
And the Magic Wand is… Hormones!
Simultaneously, during the early days of the menstrual phase, the follicular phase kicks in. The pituitary gland says, “Let’s produce some more eggs!” and releases the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This is the body’s way of preparing several eggs for potential fertilization. One of these eggs will become the main star of the show, growing faster and larger than the rest.
Phase 3: Ovulation (Day 14)
Ta-da! The Star Egg Makes its Appearance
Around day 14, the menstrual cycle 101 plot thickens! The body releases the ‘Luteinising hormone’ which is like a VIP pass for the most mature egg, allowing it to make its grand entry from the ovary into the fallopian tube. This is where it waits for its dance partner, a sperm, to possibly join and fertilize it.
Phase 4: Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
Will They? Won’t They? The Grand Finale
Post ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into what’s known as the corpus luteum. It secretes progesterone which preps the uterus, in case the egg is fertilized. If the egg doesn’t meet a sperm, the corpus luteum fades away, leading to a drop in progesterone and the start of the menstrual phase again.
The Menstrual Cycle 101 Fun Fact!
Did you know that while the menstrual cycle is typically 28 days, it’s entirely normal for it to range anywhere from 21 to 35 days? Every woman is unique, and so is her cycle.
So, mums, next time your child curiously asks about those ‘special’ pads or tampons, how about narrating the ‘Monthly Body Magic’ tale? Or better yet, if your child is slightly older, point them to our friendly guide on Menstrual Cycle 101. After all, understanding our bodies should be as fun as the magic they hold within!
Remember, every menstruating person’s ‘monthly body magic’ story can differ slightly. Listen, learn, and most importantly, let’s keep the conversations flowing, just like our cycles!