YOUR MENSTRUATION TO OVULATION JOURNEY

We often take it for granted that girls of a certain age and women know enough about their menstruation to ovulation journey, especially considering the central part it plays in childbearing. If you are one of those still learning how this works, do not feel ashamed to read up, ask questions and find answers. For decades, there have been inadequate information and shame surrounding women’s reproductive and sexual health. Shed away that socially imposed shame and get to know your menstrual cycle better. Having in-depth knowledge of your menstrual journey will help you monitor and improve your fertility and childbirth journey. Learn about the hormones your body produces and if possible, go for a hormones profile test.

Here is some basic information you can start with:

MENSTRUATION PHASE: This occurs the first day you start bleeding and requires the use of a pad, tampons, or other menstrual sanitary products, for your hygiene and protection, etc.

FOLLICULAR PHASE: This is a rise in your FSH signals. A rise in estrogen levels usually causes an LH surge, inducing ovulation. Cervical mucous will start to increase from dry days to sticky/tacky mucous which can be cloudy, white, or yellow in color.

OVULATION PHASE: Here, LH surge signals ovulation and a possible spike in body temperature. Your cervical mucous will be clear and stretchy, resembling raw egg whites

LUTEAL PHASE: During this phase, your follicle will rupture, releasing estrogen & progesterone to prepare your body for pregnancy. if pregnancy does not occur, your estrogen and progesterone levels will drop and the menstrual phase will follow.