Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
What is the Menstrual Cycle?
The menstrual cycle is a series of changes that occur in a woman's body to prepare for the possibility of pregnancy. It typically begins between ages 12-15 and continues until menopause (average age 52). The average cycle is 28 days, counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next.
The Menstrual Phase
A period (menstruation) is the discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterus lining, through the vagina. It usually lasts 2-7 days and occurs when the egg from the previous cycle is not fertilized. The lining of the uterus sheds, and the cycle restarts.
Ovulation & Fertility
Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovaries. This typically occurs about 14 days before your next period. You are most fertile ~5 days before ovulation through 1-2 days after. If the egg is not fertilized, the cycle continues and another period begins.
What is a Regular Cycle?
A regular menstrual cycle is one where the longest and shortest cycles vary by less than 8 days. For example, if your cycles range from 26-32 days, this is considered regular (6-day variation). Most cycles last 21-35 days.