Understanding Your Womb: The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

An essential component to intimately connecting with the womb is understanding the natural cycles that our bodies go through. The more we learn and appreciate each unique phase, the more we can intentionally live in harmony with our bodies. Learning to accept and work with the cyclical rhythm of our bodies can be incredibly transformational and empowering. Embracing this knowledge leads to a strong sense of self acceptance and informed body autonomy.

Contrary to common belief, our bleed time is not the main event of the menstrual cycle. Ovulation is! Without a regular ovulation cycle, there would be no period/menstruation.

The four stages of the menstrual cycle include:

The menstrual stage

This first stage typically lasts approx. day 1-7. This is what we know as the period/bleed stage. Bleeding occurs because the egg from the previous cycle wasn’t fertilized and the hormones of estrogen and progesterone drop. Thus, the thickened lining of the uterus, which would support pregnancy is no longer needed and subsequently sheds through the vagina.

The follicular stage

The second stage also starts on day one of the cycle (there is an overlap with the menstrual stage). The average follicular stage lasts 16 days, but can range from 11-27 days. In this stage the body produces hormones (estrogen + follicle stimulating hormone or FSH) that stimulate the ovaries to produce follicles which eventually will mature and release an egg.

The ovulation stage

The main event!! Rising estrogen levels trigger the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone which starts the process of ovulation. Ovulation is when the ovary releases a mature egg. Ovulation only lasts about 24-48 hours and typically occurs at approx. day 10-16, although every woman is different.

The luteal stage

After the follicle releases an egg, the body produces mostly progesterone and some estrogen. These hormones keep the uterine lining thick and ready to house a fertilized egg, should it implant. If pregnancy occurs, the uterine lining remains intact. Otherwise the progesterone and estrogen will drop causing the uterine lining to shed (causing bleeding/the period).

The luteal phase lasts for 11-17 days, with the average length usually around 14 days.

Learning to care for our bodies within the context of cyclical living is essential as women. Our body's needs and abilities differ with each stage and it's important to understand how to best support our changing bodies throughout each phase.

“In order to trust your body as a guide, the first step is to understand it”

-Deepak Chopra

With love,

Whitney

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