Breaking Down the Menstrual Cycle: What Happens Each Week?


Your menstrual cycle is more than just your period—it's a month-long journey your body takes every single cycle! Understanding what happens each week can help you better care for yourself, recognize what’s normal, and feel more in tune with your body. Let’s break it down week by week:

Week 1: Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)

Your period is here!

• What’s Happening:
  This is when your uterus sheds its lining, leading to bleeding. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest, which can make you feel tired or emotional.
• How You Might Feel:
  Low energy, cramps, bloating, mood swings, and cravings.
• Self-Care Tips:
  Rest as much as you need, stay hydrated, and use heat packs or pain relievers for cramp relief. Gentle stretching or light walks can also help boost your mood.

Week 2: Follicular Phase (Days 6–14)

Your energy is picking up!

• What’s Happening:
  Your body is preparing for ovulation by growing follicles (tiny sacs that contain eggs) in the ovaries. Estrogen levels rise, making you feel more energetic, confident, and positive.
• How You Might Feel:
  More energized, focused, and social. You may also notice clearer skin and an increased libido.
• Self-Care Tips:
  It’s a great time to start new projects, socialize, and exercise. Take advantage of this natural boost!

Week 3: Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)

Peak time for fertility!

• What’s Happening:
  Your ovary releases an egg in hopes of fertilization. Estrogen peaks and luteinizing hormone (LH) surges.
• How You Might Feel:
  Feeling flirty, powerful, and vibrant! Some may experience a slight twinge (called mittelschmerz) in the lower abdomen.
• Self-Care Tips:
  Embrace the high energy—schedule important events or activities you want to shine in. Keep up with hydration and nutrition to support your body.

Week 4: Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)

Slowing down and preparing for your next period.

• What’s Happening:
  After ovulation, progesterone rises to prepare the body for a potential pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, hormone levels start to fall, triggering PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms.
• How You Might Feel:
  Mood swings, irritability, fatigue, cravings, sore breasts, and bloating are common.
• Self-Care Tips:
  Prioritize sleep, manage stress, and listen to your body. Nourishing foods, light exercise, and self-care rituals (like cozy baths or journaling) can help ease symptoms.

The Big Takeaway:

Your body moves through natural rhythms every month, and each phase brings its own strengths and challenges. Learning to work with your cycle, rather than against it, can help you feel more balanced, empowered, and cared for—no matter what time of the month it is!

💖 Remember: Every body is different! Tracking your cycle and noticing your own patterns can help you tailor your self-care even more.