Understanding the Hormones That Regulate Your Menstrual Cycle

Hey ladies,

Ever wonder what's really going on with your body during your menstrual cycle? Let's break it down and get to know the key

players—the hormones that keep everything running smoothly each month.

The Main Hormones Involved

Estrogen

Role: Estrogen is like the star of the first half of your cycle. It helps thicken the uterine lining, preparing it for a potential pregnancy.
Timing: Levels of estrogen rise during the follicular phase (the first two weeks) and peak just before ovulation.

Progesterone

Role: Progesterone takes over in the second half of your cycle, maintaining the uterine lining and supporting a potential pregnancy.
Timing: Its levels increase after ovulation during the luteal phase (the second two weeks).

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Role: FSH helps your ovaries get ready to release an egg. It stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, each containing an egg.
Timing: It peaks early in the cycle, leading up to ovulation.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Role: LH is the hormone that triggers ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.
Timing: There’s a surge in LH levels mid-cycle, about 24 to 36 hours before ovulation.

How They Work Together

Follicular Phase (Days 1-14):

The cycle starts on the first day of your period. FSH levels rise, stimulating follicle growth.
As follicles grow, they produce estrogen. Rising estrogen levels signal the uterine lining to thicken.

Ovulation (Around Day 14):

A surge in LH causes the mature follicle to release an egg.
This is your most fertile time of the month.

Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):

After ovulation, the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone.
Progesterone stabilizes the uterine lining, making it ready for a fertilized egg.
If pregnancy doesn't occur, progesterone levels drop, leadin g to the shedding of the uterine lining (your period), and the cycle starts anew.

Understanding these hormones can help you make sense of the changes you experience throughout your cycle, from mood swings to energy levels and everything in between.

Stay in tune with your body, and remember, it’s all part of what makes you amazing!

Love,

Denise