Phases of the menstrual cycle: psychological characteristics

Every month, women have menstruation, a period that we often experience as horrible, either because we have been taught that way or because of our experiences. Now, the changes we undergo are still part of a natural phenomenon with different phases.

That’s how it is, d During the menstrual cycle there are quite different stages. Understanding how we may feel in each one will open the doors for us so that the menstrual cycle is not a negative turning point in our well-being.

In addition to the menstruationwhich is perhaps the best-known phase for its most obvious characteristics and also because advertising has been most interested in it, there are also: the follicular phase, the ovulation phase and the luteal phase. Below we will go into each of them, we will see what it is about and what measures we can take so that it does not condition our state in a negative way.

On the other hand, let us remember that the menstrual cycle is an organic processso knowing it will also improve communication with our body: we will know how to identify more signals and interpret them better.

Phases of the menstrual cycle

There are 4 phases of the menstrual cycle. In addition, in each one there is a specific production of hormones and neurotransmitters.. Thus, thanks to the measurement of this production, we can describe quite accurately what happens in this phase.

The menstrual cycle begins on the first day that the period arrives and ends one day before the arrival of the next one. However, being aware that this varies, we can say that it lasts between 21 and 35.

It is inevitable that the changes that occur in our hormones have no impact on the emotional level. Hormones affect the chemical balance of our brain and, therefore, indirectly affect our mood.

Menstruation phase

The phases of the menstrual cycle determine a large number of a woman’s emotions and behaviors during those days. So, During menstruation there is a drop in estrogen, a hormone that affects the excitability of the nervous system.. In addition, it increases the levels of some neurotransmitters, such as enkephalins, endorphins and serotonin.

When the level of estrogen drops, the amount of these neurotransmitters in our body also decreases.; the same ones that make us feel good. In addition, the decrease in estrogen causes the levels of estradiol, a hormone that influences sexual appetite, to decrease. In parallel, there are also lower levels of progesterone, a hormone that affects nervous tension and irritability.

However, We could take advantage of this phase to focus on ourselves. This is a period that favors introspection. Therefore, related activities, such as writing, tend to be more fluid. It is also a good time to make decisions that require a bit of analysis and calm.

Follicular phase

The duration of the follicular phase, the first phase of the menstrual cycle, varies from woman to woman. In addition, it will depend on the growth of the ovarian follicles. It begins on the day the period begins and ends when the egg is cultivated. At this stage, luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones are produced, which cause estrogen to be generated.

The amount of estrogen increases progressively in this stage, mainly estradiol. This translates at a biological level into an increase in neurotransmitters such as enkephalins, endorphins, and serotonin. And, around day eleven, areas associated with the reward system are activated.

What happens on a biological level is reflected on a psychological level. In this phase the feeling of happiness and sexual desire increases. Additionally, strength and energy are increased with the increase in estradiol.

This stage is an unparalleled opportunity to undertake projects. Thanks to the activation of reward systems, it is a phase that encourages us to plan and achieve goals. At this moment, it will be easier for us to feel that the effort invested has been profitable.

ovulatory phase

The next phase of the menstrual cycle is the ovulatory phase. When the egg finishes its maturation process, the pituitary gland produces an increase in luteinizing hormone., which is responsible for ovulation. The egg can be fertilized by a sperm in a period of 12 to 36 hours, which gives rise to pregnancy if there is fertilization, or to the next menstruation, if there is not.

What is the process? In this phase, estrogens increase, and enzymes are produced that allow the degradation of follicular tissue. This allows the maturation of the ovum to finish and to subsequently be released. In this phase, sexual desire and energy increase, thanks to the increase in estrogen added to the influence of oxytocin and serotonin. Furthermore, it is a favorable period for procreation, as it is the time when we have the greatest chance of becoming pregnant.

To take advantage of this phase we can see procreation in another way, not the literal one. For example, putting all our energy into being creative will help the projects we have flow. Also, sharing and giving our love and support to those who need us. In this way we nourish our goals, and we empathize and share with others.

luteal phase

The last phase of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase. Thus, after ovulation, the corpus luteum is detached. A structure inside the ovaries that contains the developing egg. If it has not been implanted, the corpus luteum stops producing progesterone. So. The lining of the uterus will shed in the next period.

One week before menstruation, estrogen and progesterone decrease, then premenstrual syndrome usually occurs, during which there may be:

Sadness.Irritability.Less concentrationAnxiety.Bad mood.Back pain.Headache.Less sleep. Abdominal pain.Cravings.Diarrhea or constipation.

However, There are cases in which a serious limitation can occur because it is in which the symptoms occur with greater intensity. On the other hand, premenstrual dysphoric disorder may appear. Studies on its incidence tell us that 3% to 8% of women are affected.

In fact, a study by Uriel Halbreich and collaborators, published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinologyrevealed that The deterioration and quality of life of people with this disorder is similar to that which occurs in dysthymic disorder..

Even though there is all this avalanche of emotions

Even though there is all this avalanche of emotions, You can take advantage of this phase. As? It is time to release all the burdens we carry. A great idea is to express our thoughts and feelings, this will make us feel less tense. So, it is the great opportunity to let go of what does not benefit us.

We could put aside the pessimistic view of the menstrual cycle and see it as an opportunity to connect with ourselves, being aware of our body and our mind. We can make the follicular phase a period of reflection and decision, the ovulatory phase a moment of expression, the luteal phase a liberating moment and the menstrual phase a period of emotional growth.

Each of the phases of the menstrual cycle manifests itself through our body and our mind. Knowing them helps us know more about ourselves and turn changes into great benefits. The menstrual cycle consists of many parts, not everything is negative, it depends on the perspective with which we see it.

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