What are the 4 phases of the menstrual cycle?
Your menstrual cycle is divided into four distinct phases, each with its own hormonal changes and effects on your body.
1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
This is your period — the phase most people are familiar with. The uterine lining sheds because pregnancy didn't occur in the previous cycle.
What happens:
- The lining of the uterus is shed through the vagina
- You may experience cramps, bloating, fatigue, and mood changes
- Hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) are at their lowest
Duration: Typically 3-7 days
2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)
This phase overlaps with menstruation and continues after your period ends. Your body begins preparing for the next potential pregnancy.
What happens:
- The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Several follicles begin developing in your ovaries, each containing an egg
- One follicle becomes dominant and continues to mature
- Estrogen levels rise, causing the uterine lining to thicken
- You may feel more energetic and have an improved mood
Duration: About 11-13 days (varies most between individuals)
3. Ovulation Phase (Day 14)
The shortest phase — this is when your body releases a mature egg.
What happens:
- A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers the release of the mature egg
- The egg travels down the fallopian tube toward the uterus
- This is your most fertile time
- You may notice clear, stretchy cervical mucus
Duration: 24-48 hours (the egg survives about 12-24 hours)
4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
The final phase before your next period begins.
What happens:
- The empty follicle transforms into the corpus luteum
- Progesterone rises to maintain the uterine lining
- If the egg isn't fertilized, the corpus luteum breaks down
- Progesterone and estrogen drop, triggering PMS symptoms
- Common symptoms: bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, food cravings
Duration: Usually 12-14 days (the most consistent phase)
Femora's cycle ring dashboard shows you exactly which phase you're in, color-coded for easy reference: red for menstrual, pink for follicular, purple for ovulation, and indigo for luteal.