Menstrual Health Period Basics
Understanding Your Cycle

Your Cycle.
Decoded.

The menstrual cycle is far more than just your period. Learn the four phases, what your hormones are doing each day, and how to track your unique pattern.

Normal cycle: 21–35 days
4 phases per cycle
Ovulation is the main event
Tracking reveals your patterns
Hormones shift daily, not monthly
Fertile window is only ~6 days
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The menstrual cycle is divided into four phases, each governed by different hormones and each influencing how you feel physically and emotionally.

Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)Day 1 of cycle

Oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. The uterine lining sheds — this is your period. Energy is often lower; rest is physiologically appropriate. Flow typically lasts 3–7 days.

Follicular Phase (Days 1–13)Rising energy

FSH rises, prompting follicles to develop. As the dominant follicle matures, it produces increasing oestradiol. Energy, mood and libido typically improve.

Ovulation (Around Day 14)Peak fertility

A surge in LH triggers the release of the mature egg. Oestrogen peaks just before ovulation. The fertile window is approximately 6 days.

Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)Progesterone dominant

The ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum, producing progesterone. If the egg is not fertilised, progesterone and oestrogen decline, triggering menstruation. PMS symptoms occur here for many women.

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