The 3 Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

Follicular phase

This starts the first day of the period. The first few days’ bleeding occurs. This can last for 3 to 8 days. The first few cycles maybe irregular and girls may have one period then not have another for a few months. It will take around 18 months to regulate the periods. The actual amount of blood lost during a period is only around 4 tea spoon full although it often appears much more. Oestrogen levels increase in this phase. The Follicular phase lasts around 16 days

Ovulation

During this stage the ovaries release the egg and this happens around 14 days. This is the time during the month when girls are most fertile. They may notice a slight temperature and a slight creamy discharge during ovulation

Luteal phase

During this phase we see progesterone rise Initially. If the egg is not fertilised, then oestrogen and progesterone levels reduce which initiates the bleed. During the Luteal phase some females experience Premenstrual symptoms (PMS).