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The 4 Phases of Your Menstrual Cycle - What You Need to Know

Ever wonder why your energy, mood, cravings, and even your skin feel different at different times of the month? It’s all down to your menstrual cycle - a natural rhythm that affects your hormones, body, and wellbeing.

Understanding each phase of your cycle is one of the best ways to support your body naturally, reduce PMS symptoms, and feel more in tune with yourself. At ANNA’S, we’re passionate about helping women work with their cycles, not against them, using natural, hormone-supporting products like our signature Wild Yam Cream.

Let’s break down the four phases of your cycle so you can understand why you feel the way you do - and how to care for yourself at every stage.

1. Menstrual Phase (Day 1-5) - Your Period and Hormone Reset

What’s happening:

  • Your cycle begins on Day 1, the first day of bleeding.

  • Oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest.

  • Your uterine lining sheds - this is your period.

How you might feel:

  • Lower energy or fatigue.

  • Cramping or discomfort from uterine contractions.

  • A desire for rest and gentle self-care.

Natural support tips:

  • Prioritise gentle movement like stretching, pilates or yoga.

  • Soothe and energise your body with iron-rich foods like roasted beetroot, spinach, lentil stews, or chickpea bowls.

  • Stay hydrated to ease cramps and headaches.

2. Follicular Phase (Day 1-13) - Building Energy and Hormone Balance

What’s happening:

  • Your pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prompting your ovaries to prepare eggs for ovulation.

  • Oestrogen rises, helping to rebuild and thicken your uterine lining.

How you might feel:

  • Energy lifts after your period.

  • Your mood brightens, and mental clarity improves.

  • Motivation to start new projects or workout is high.

Natural support tips:

  • Channel this energy into creativity, planning, or goal-setting.

  • Nourish your body with fresh, nutrient-dense meals - think vibrant salads, whole grains, and colourful vegetables to support hormone production.

3. Ovulatory Phase (Around Day 14) - Peak Fertility and Confidence

What’s happening:

  • Oestrogen peaks, triggering a luteinising hormone (LH) surge.

  • A mature egg is released from your ovary - ovulation.

  • You’re most fertile during this phase.

How you might feel:

  • Energy and confidence are at their peak.

  • You may feel more sociable, outgoing, or even magnetic.

  • Your skin may glow thanks to hormonal changes.

Natural support tips:

  • Schedule important meetings or social events - this is your natural peak for confidence.

  • Support your body with lean proteins, hydrating foods, and plenty of water.

  • Enjoy higher-intensity workouts if you feel up to it.

4. Luteal Phase (Day 15-28) - Preparing for Potential Pregnancy and PMS Relief

What’s happening:

  • The follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, releasing progesterone to prepare the uterus for pregnancy.

  • If pregnancy doesn’t occur, progesterone drops, triggering PMS and the start of your next cycle.

How you might feel:

  • The first half may feel productive and steady.

  • The second half can bring PMS symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and fatigue.

  • You may crave comfort foods and more rest.

Natural support tips:

  • Listen to your body and slow down when needed.

  • Include magnesium-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, or almonds to ease PMS symptoms.

  • Limit caffeine and refined sugar to support mood and hormone balance.

Support Your Hormonal Balance Naturally with ANNA’S

Since 1997, ANNA’S has harnessed pure, powerful ingredients traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support women’s health and wellbeing. Our Wild Yam Cream combines Wild Yam and Chaste Tree - herbs long trusted to relieve menstrual pain and spasms, support hormone balance, and help reduce the occurrence of menopausal symptoms.

 

 

*Disclaimer: This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. ANNA’S products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare practitioner before starting any new health or wellness routine, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an existing medical condition, or are taking any medication. Individual results may vary.

 

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