How well do you really know your body?
At first glance, you might say: "pretty well." It’s the house we live in every day, the one we observe in the mirror—often with a critical eye. Everything changes, however, when we turn our gaze inward to discover the magnificent and mysterious natural processes occurring away from prying eyes.
Most notably: the menstrual cycle.
Its name already hints at its essence. The menstrual cycle is a much longer and more complex process than we often think. Its influence on our well-being extends far beyond the typical 4 or 5 days of your period. Understanding it means getting to know ourselves better—learning to listen, understanding our bodily changes, and perhaps being a little less hard on ourselves.
What feels like a "bad day" might simply be the result of a hormonal shift, and abdominal bloating could be a sign of impending ovulation—not the fault of that chocolate biscuit you enjoyed a few hours earlier.
What is the menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle is a physiological process that begins at puberty, signaling that the reproductive system is ready for pregnancy. Each cycle varies in length—generally between 21 and 40 days—and involves the appearance of a period once a month.
The length and intensity vary from person to person and change throughout life. During adolescence or as you approach menopause, an irregular "biological clock" is normal. However, for persistent irregularities, we always recommend consulting your doctor.
Let’s explore the four phases of the cycle and how to navigate them with greater awareness.
1. The menstrual phase
It begins with the first day of your period: the body sheds the endometrium (the uterine lining) along with the unfertilized egg. This phase usually lasts 3 to 8 days and can be accompanied by cramps, bloating, and fatigue, especially in the first 48 hours.
What can help you at this stage:
- Natural and biodegradable sanitary pads or menstrual cup
- Comfortable clothes that don't tighten around the abdomen
- Get some exercise to reduce pain and swelling resulting from uterine contractions.
2. The follicular phase
This starts with your period and ends with ovulation. The brain releases FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), which stimulates egg production in the ovaries. As the body prepares for fertility, estrogen levels rise, often improving your mood and increasing sexual desire.
Advise: Maintain daily intimate hygiene with gentle, pH-balanced cleansers, like those in the Kysh line.
3. The ovulatory phase
This is actual ovulation. The mature egg is released into the fallopian tubes. This is the most fertile stage of the cycle; the estrogen peak often brings a boost in energy, mood, and vitality. You may notice thick, white vaginal discharge: this is cervical mucus, which is completely normal and aids fertilization.
4. The luteal phase
After ovulation, the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which releases estrogen and progesterone to prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy. If fertilization doesn't occur, hormone levels drop, and the cycle prepares to start again.
During this stage, you may experience:
- Bloating and breast tenderness
- Mood swings or irritability
- Craving sweets or increased hunger
- Fatigue
If you feel more irritable or sad, remember: it’s just PMS. Treat yourself to moments of self-care, hydration, and intimate skincare. Your body is doing an amazing job.
