The Menstrual Cycle
Every body is different. Because of this, every person may experience having a period slightly differently. Knowing the basics about the menstrual cycle can help you recognize patterns in your cycle and know what to expect.
Menstrual Cycle Length
The length of a menstrual cycle, or the time between periods, can vary from person to person. It is common to get a period every 21 to 35 days (Bull et al) and each period can last anywhere from 2-8 days (Reed et al). It is likely for there to be fluctuation between cycles and that is ok. Similarly, the symptoms experienced throughout the cycle can vary among individuals. As our hormone levels alter throughout the cycle, it is common to experience symptoms like cramping, increased hunger, tenderness in breasts, mood fluctuations, fatigue, headaches.
Menstrual Cycle Phases
The body is constantly moving through the three phases that make up the menstrual cycle. The natural rise and fall of specific hormones drive the shift from one phase of the cycle to the next. Hormones act as messengers traveling through the blood to organs and tissues allowing them to perform essential functions.
The first day of your period signifies the start of the follicular phase. This can last for 10-16 days.
The next phase is the ovulatory phase which lasts anywhere from 16-32 hours.
The last phase of a menstrual cycle is the luteal phase lasting approximately 14 days
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