Understanding our hormones throughout the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is much more than just a few days of menstruation. It is a true ballet of hormones and micro-metamorphoses of the body. Delving into how the body works allows us to better understand our symptoms and our mood swings. 

In this article, we will share with you the power of hormones on our cycle. 

Our goal: to tame them and make them allies rather than fearing them. 

What are the hormones of the menstrual cycle?

At the beginning are FSH and LH.

Follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH and luteinizing hormone, aka LH for those in the know, are the two main hormones and will act on the ovaries which, in turn, will produce progesterone and estrogens.

Progesterone and estrogen are the masters of ceremonies of the evolution of our menstrual cycle. They are the ones who give the starting signal to each new phase by the fluctuation of their levels in the blood. It is precisely during the luteal phase, under the effect of progesterone, that these hormonal variations are most felt on a daily basis. 

Estrogens

Estrogens have the first mission of developing the woman's body during puberty.

They influence:

• breast growth,

• hair quality,

• skin texture,

• egg production,

• fat gain.

With the help of FSH, estrogens contribute to the formation of an egg. When estrogen levels are at their highest, we observe cervical mucus. It is at this moment that we also feel more confident and ready to take on new challenges! 
Progesterone

Progesterone is rather responsible for preparing the uterus for a possible pregnancy.  

In short, it acts on:

• the thickening of the uterine lining,

• the development of the endometrium,

• the maintenance of early pregnancy,

• the preparation of the mammary glands during lactation.

Progesterone fluctuations can cause irritability, hunger, acne, increased breast sensitivity, and low energy. It is the one responsible for the premenstrual syndrome : this so trying phase before the arrival of the period. 

If you are affected, do not hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional. There are natural solutions and dedicated dietary supplements to relieve your symptoms during this time of the month.  

The effects of hormones on the cycle

Menstruation

On the first day of the period, FSH production begins. As its name indicates, it will help the little follicle become a beautiful egg.

While the endometrium detaches from the uterus, estrogen and progesterone levels in the blood are at their lowest. It is this sudden drop that causes symptoms such as cramps or headaches. Thank you, but no thank you. 

After the first few days of menstruation, the ovaries resume their estrogen production to restart the cycle. 

Before ovulation: the follicular phase

The follicular phase is crucial for the body, because it is the time when hormones help it build a nest to welcome a fertilized egg.

At this stage, the endometrium lining the walls of the uterus thickens.

Estrogen levels continue to rise steadily while progesterone is still at its minimum.

Finally, it is during this phase that we observe the only testosterone peak in people assigned female at birth. This hormone could be directly linked to the increase in libido. 

Let's not forget that the body's goal at this moment is to perpetuate the species. It therefore gives everything it has to trigger reproduction.

It's ovulation time baby!

Like a TikTok star, the luteinizing hormone (LH) makes a dazzling appearance before quickly disappearing. Its role is to trigger ovulation.

For example, in a 28-day hormonal cycle, the LH peak occurs between day 12 and 14 of the cycle. Its production peak is so effective that it triggers the release of the egg within 24 to 36 hours. 

It is actually this peak that urine ovulation tests measure, which allow you to anticipate ovulation without necessarily confirming it.

During this waiting period for fertilization, progesterone gradually increases to welcome the arrival of a potential embryo. 

Before the period: the luteal phase

After a few days of waiting, the body decides to close the window if the egg has not been fertilized. Progesterone causes a decrease in FSH and LH levels, you are in the luteal phase. 

The ovaries also stop their production of estrogens and then progesterone.

It is at this moment that we feel more vulnerable and more sensitive to pain. Sudden sugar cravings, pulling in the lower back, mood swings, premenstrual syndrome manifests differently depending on the woman.

It is the right time to slow down and take care of yourself. Masturbation is also an excellent remedy for PMS. We tell you more here.

You are now a hormone expert! Congratulations, it is one more step towards understanding and accepting your body. If you wish to continue exploring the wonderful world of periods, here is a carefully selected selection of books.