Let’s be real, sis. For so long, we’ve been taught to dread our periods, push through our cramps, and hush any talk about PMS like it’s something shameful. Every woman experiences a monthly cycle, but many of us don’t fully understand what’s happening in our bodies week by week. The female hormonal cycle is divided into four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Each phase plays a unique role in your reproductive health and affects your energy levels, mood, and even how your skin looks.
Understanding your cycle empowers you to work with your body’s flow—emotionally, physically, and spiritually, not against it. The more we understand it, the more we can honor ourselves and stop apologizing for being in tune with our bodies. Let’s break it down together.
1. The Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)
What happens:
This phase begins on the first day of your period. During menstruation, the uterus sheds its lining, which exits the body through the vagina. Estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest, which can leave you feeling tired and moody… Suddenly everybody is just so annoying.
How you might feel:
- Low energy
- Crampy or bloated
- More introverted or reflective
Tips for this phase:
- Rest as much as possible
- Eat iron-rich foods (like spinach and lentils)
- Gentle exercise like stretching or yoga can help reduce cramps
What helps me through this phase?
These overnight pads from Molped are top-notch for me. They make sure I wake up stain free!
2. The Follicular Phase (Days 1–13)
What happens:
Even though it overlaps with menstruation, the follicular phase starts on day one of your cycle and continues until ovulation. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which helps eggs mature. Estrogen begins to rise, thickening the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. This is the time you are ready to try that new recipe you saw online.
How you might feel:
- More energetic and focused
- Uplifted mood
- Ready to start new projects
Tips for this phase:
- Set goals and plan ahead
- Increase your workouts
- Try new things—your brain loves it during this phase
What I love during this phase?
Studying online and upgrading my digital marketing skills. This is the best course I’ve seen on the market!
3. The Ovulation Phase (Days 14–16)
What happens:
Ovulation typically occurs mid-cycle when estrogen peaks and luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers the release of a mature egg. This is the most fertile time in your cycle. Suddenly somebody’s son is looking more handsome.
How you might feel:
- Most confident and sociable
- Increased libido
- Glowing skin and higher pain tolerance
Tips for this phase:
- Schedule important meetings or social events
- Make bold moves—you’re at your peak
- Be mindful of fertility if you’re not trying to conceive
What I eat most during this phase?
4. The Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)
What happens:
After ovulation, progesterone rises to support a potential pregnancy. If fertilization doesn’t happen, hormone levels drop, leading to PMS symptoms. The body begins preparing to shed the uterine lining again. There’s no real words to describe how you feel… you just feel ugh!
How you might feel:
- Mood swings or irritability
- Food cravings
- Fatigue or headaches
Tips for this phase:
- Practice self-care and prioritize sleep
- Reduce caffeine and sugar to manage PMS
- Journaling or creative expression can be helpful
My favorite activity during this phase.
Sleep!
Conclusion
Your cycle is a powerful part of who you are. By understanding each hormonal phase of your monthly cycle —menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal—you can make choices that support your health, productivity, and emotional well-being.
When you tune into your body’s natural rhythms, you begin to work in harmony with yourself instead of fighting against hormonal changes. That’s not just smart—it’s empowering.
Have you come to understand your monthly cycle? Which is your favorite phase and how do you cope with your least favorite phase. Let’s gist in the comments!
