The reproductive cycle is a complex little factory that operates underneath layers of skin, muscles and organs for roughly 28 days. Now while this silent operation may feel like nothing (unless of course you experience cramps during your period), most of time,
The reproductive cycle is a complex little factory that operates underneath layers of skin, muscles and organs for roughly 28 days. Now while this silent operation may feel like nothing (unless of course you experience cramps during your period), most of time, women just don't know what's happening day-by-day.
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And though you may have heard the phrase "28 day cycle" your whole life, if your period has a different timeline, don't be alarmed.
"A 'normal' cycle can range anywhere from 21 to 36 days, so this is approximate," says Lauren Streicher, associate clinical professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University’s Medical School. She notes any "regular" cycle you see described (like the one below) is based on a woman who is not taking the birth control pill. "Otherwise it’s the pill talking, not your ovaries."
The two major hormones associated with the reproductive cycle are estrogen and progesterone (a type of steroid hormone that is responsible for preparing the uterus for pregnancy). While these two hormones are important for your cycle, other hormones also help your cycle function as a whole, according to The Doctors.
Although every woman's reproductive cycle is different, the chart below outlines generally what a 28-day cycle looks like. Streicher goes through how menstruation changes in a month, as well as tips for women who are trying to conceive.
The first day of your period also happens to be the first day of your cycle. Unless you’re pregnant, your hormone levels plummet, and the blood and tissues lining your uterus break down and begin to shed. "The next 28 days are all about your ever-optimistic uterus prepping for the possibility of a nine-month house guest," says Lauren Streicher, associate clinical professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University’s Medical School.
Your period is in full swing. Streicher says the second day of your cycle is generally a heavier one. Today is the day you want to use a super tampon or heavy-flow pad — and make sure you change them regularly. If you happen to find a small clot of blood on your pad or underwear, don't panic. "That’s perfectly normal for this point in your cycle. But if you’re going through a box of tampons in a day and passing plum-sized clots, get checked out by a doctor."
Generally, for most women, this is the final day of heavy bleeding. In the next few days, you will probably still see red blood and/or deal with stomach aches. "You may also experience some changes in your vaginal pH around now, which could lead to yeast infections and bad odours. If so, try an over-the-counter vaginal probiotic." Streicher recommends Pro-B to balance things out.
Good news! Your period is getting lighter and some of you may notice it go from bright red to brown.
If your period ends around day five, use a panty liner for any additional spotting.
For many, this is the first day you’ll be free from your period. Other women have periods that can last up to seven days, which again, is perfectly normal.
By now, your period should be almost gone (or gone completely for some). This means that your body is gearing up for next month and the next phase. "Small follicles (little cysts on the ov