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Period is a monthly occurrence that may come with a rollercoaster of emotions and physical pain, too. In any case, it is a natural, crucial, and complex process for female reproduction.
The menstrual cycle is shrouded with misinformation and cultural taboos, which is why it is important to demystify it. Occurring in females from puberty to menopause, it involves a series of hormonal changes, physiological events, and the shedding of the uterine lining. In this article, we will shed light on the different phases of a menstrual cycle, along with the hormonal changes and the common disorders associated with it.
Synopsis
What Happens in a Menstrual Cycle?
Your hormones control your menstrual cycle. In every cycle, elevated levels of oestrogen hormones cause ovulation. This is when the ovary develops and releases an egg. During this phase, the uterine lining thickens. Next, the progesterone hormones prepare the womb for the implantation of a developing embryo. The egg then travels through the fallopian tube.
Your body will reabsorb that egg if you don’t get pregnant. The hormonal levels also start to come down. Finally, the uterine lining leaves your body, which is the menstrual flow. Usually, a woman gets their period every 28 days.
What Are the Phases of the Menstrual Cycle?
There are 4 phases involved in a menstrual cycle. Let us have a look at what those are.
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Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5)
In this phase, the blood and tissue from your uterus will start moving out. It is the beginning of the menstrual cycle.
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Follicular Phase (Days 1-14)
This phase begins on the first day of menstruation and extends until ovulation. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the development of ovarian follicles. Each of them contains an immature egg.
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Ovulatory Phase (Day 14)
Ovulation occurs when a mature follicle releases an egg from the ovary. This usually happens around the middle of the menstrual cycle. Ovulation is triggered by a surge in luteinising hormone (LH).
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Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. It releases progesterone, preparing the uterus for a potential pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining.
If you have any additional queries related to these phases, consult the best gynaecologist in Bangalore.
Hormonal Changes in the Menstrual Cycle
The entire menstrual cycle is closely related to female hormonal changes. Let us see how!
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Oestrogen
The ovaries produce oestrogen hormones. It stimulates the growth of the uterine lining during the follicular phase. The levels of this hormone increase just before ovulation.
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Progesterone
Released by the corpus luteum after ovulation, progesterone hormones help maintain the uterine lining. It aids in the preparation of a fertilised egg. If pregnancy doesn't occur, progesterone levels start to drop. This is the onset of menstruation.
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Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH stimulates the development of ovarian follicles in the early part of the menstrual cycle.
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Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH triggers ovulation. It causes the mature follicle to release an egg from the ovary.
What Are the Common Menstrual Disorders?
Just like its complex process, menstrual cycles may often arrive with their set of disorders. In this section, we will discuss the most Common Menstrual Disorders.
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Dysmenorrhea
It is the painful menstrual cramps. This condition is often associated with the release of prostaglandins. While primary dysmenorrhea is common, secondary dysmenorrhea may indicate an underlying medical condition.
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Amenorrhea
It is the medical term used if your menstrual cycle is absent. Primary amenorrhea is the condition when a girl has not started to menstruate by the age of 16. Secondary amenorrhea is the absence of periods for three consecutive cycles in a woman who has previously menstruated.
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Menorrhagia
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding is called menorrhagia. Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, or other underlying conditions can cause it.
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
It is one of the most prevalent hormonal disorders in today’s women. Irregular periods, elevated androgen levels, and the presence of ovarian cysts characterise this condition. It can affect fertility and metabolism. A specialist obstetrician must supervise PCOS.
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
This is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days before menstruation. Symptoms may include mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.
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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
It is a severe form of PMS characterised by more intense emotional and physical symptoms. It may often impact an individual’s daily life.
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Endometriosis
In this condition, a uterine lining-like tissue grows outside the uterus. It can cause pain, infertility, and other complications.
Management and Treatment of Menstrual Disorders
Here are a few treatment approaches that can help you control menstrual disorders.
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Pain Relief
Doctors often recommend over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs) to alleviate menstrual cramps.
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Hormonal Birth Control
Contraceptives like birth control pills, patches, or hormonal IUDs can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms.
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Lifestyle Modifications
Healthy lifestyle choices, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, can positively impact menstrual health.
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Medical Interventions
In some cases, medical interventions may be necessary. This includes surgery for conditions like endometriosis or medication to address specific hormonal imbalances.
It is critical to identify the menstrual disorders to avoid future complications. Prioritise your health and keep in regular touch with the best gynaecologist in Bangalore by visiting her at Manipal Hospitals, Doddballapur.
FAQ's
While less likely, sperm can survive for a few days, and ovulation timing can be unpredictable. So, unless you're aiming for a pregnancy surprise, stick to reliable methods for protection.
You can count 28 days from the first day of your last cycle. Remember that this will only give you a general estimate. The timeline varies from one woman to another.
Yes, regular physical activities during your period actually help your body. It can keep your mind fresh and may also help with menstrual cramps. However, before integrating exercises into your daily, consult a professional for guidance.
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