Menstrual Cycle Phases Explained
The menstrual cycle is a complicated hormonal process that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy each month. Understanding each phase helps women use a period calculator and period cycle calculator more effectively to monitor cycle health, ovulation days, and fertility patterns.
1. Menstrual Phase (Your period)
This phase begins on day one of your cycle. The menstrual phase indicates the start of the cycle and starts on the first day of bleeding. During this phase, the uterine lining sheds, resulting in menstrual flow that typically lasts between 3 to 7 days, though this can differ from person to person. Hormone levels like the oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest, which may cause fatigue, mild cramps, or lower energy levels.
Tracking this phase using a period tracker helps establish cycle length and provides a reliable starting point for predicting future periods.
2. Follicular Phase
After menstruation, hormones stimulate egg development. It begins on the first day of your period and lasts for 13 to 14 days. During this time, the brain releases ovarian follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which encourages the ovaries to prepare eggs for release. Simultaneously, the uterine lining begins to rebuild in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
Using our menstrual cycle calculator during this phase helps identify how long it takes the body to prepare for ovulation, especially in women with irregular periods.
3. Ovulation Phase
Ovulation usually occurs around day 14 in a typical 28-day cycle, though this timing can differ based on the individual's cycle length. During this phase, an egg is released through the ovary and travels toward the uterus, creating the most fertile window of the cycle. This is the optimal time for conception, which is why an ovulation and period calculator or a fertility period calculator is especially useful for women trying to conceive.
Accurately identifying ovulation days with a period calculator online supports pregnancy planning and helps time pregnancy tests more effectively.
4. Luteal Phase
This phase begins after the ovulation process and lasts until the beginning of the next menstrual period. During this phase, progesterone levels rise to support a potential pregnancy, and the uterine lining thickens further. If fertilisation does not occur, hormone levels gradually fall, leading to the uterine lining shedding, and the start of a new cycle.
Tracking this phase with a menstruation tracker helps identify hormonal changes, premenstrual symptoms, and possible reasons for delayed or missed periods.