Our four phases - the ovarian cycle
Menstrual Phase:
Day 1 of your cycle
This is when you have your first proper bleed, not the spotting that can happen in the days leading up to your period.
Shedding of the uterine lining.
Cervical fluid is dry.
Usually lasts 3-7 days.
Oestrogen and progesterone are typically at their lowest.
Follicular Phase:
Day 8-15
The phase between menstruation and ovulation.
Oestrogen levels begin to rise, building up the uterine lining.
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced, signalling the follicles to produce an egg.
Cervical fluid is sticky (like glue) and creamy (like lotion).
Ovulatory Phase:
Day 16-19
Ovulation is the main event of the cycle and can be heavily influenced by stress, nutrition, & lifestyle.
As your oestrogen levels peak your brain releases luteinising hormone (LH) to signal the ovaries that it’s time to release an egg.
The egg has a lifespan of about 12-24 hours, however, the fertile window is longer due to the lifespan of sperm (5-6 days).
Cervical fluid is slippery, lubricative and has an egg-white consistency.
Energy and confidence is high, feeling flirtatious, this a great time to take on new challenges.
Luteal Phase:
Day 20-28
After ovulation progesterone is produced to prepare the body for a pregnancy.
If an egg isn’t fertilised, hormone levels such as oestrogen and progesterone start to drop.
Cervical fluid is dry.
Insulin sensitivity reduces during this phase, so it is important to be mindful of blood sugar balance.
Please note this is based on a 28-day cycle.
The menstrual cycle can vary for each individual and is also likely to change over the years due to many factors. A typical menstrual cycle usually lasts between 24 and 38 days.
