Understanding our hormones throughout the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is much more than just a few days of menstruation. It's a veritable ballet of hormones and micro-metamorphoses in the body. Examining how the body functions allows us to better understand our symptoms and mood swings .

This article will explain the power of hormones on our cycle .

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

What are the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle?

In the beginning are FSH and LH.

Follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH and luteinizing hormone, also known as LH, are the two main hormones and will act on the ovaries which, in turn, will produce progesterone and estrogens.

Progesterone and estrogen are the key players in the evolution of our menstrual cycle. They are the ones who signal the start of each new phase through fluctuations in their blood levels.

Estrogens

The primary role of estrogen is to develop the female body during puberty.

They influence:

• breast growth

• the quality of the hair,

• the skin texture,

• oocyte production,

• fat gain.

With the help of FSH, estrogen contributes to the formation of an egg . When estrogen levels are highest, cervical mucus is observed . It is also at this time that one feels more confident and ready to take on new challenges!
Progesterone

Progesterone is primarily 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,

• maintaining the pregnancy in its early stages,

• the preparation of the mammary glands during lactation.

Fluctuations in progesterone can cause irritability, hunger, acne, increased breast tenderness, and decreased energy. It is responsible for premenstrual syndrome. : that very trying phase before the arrival of menstruation.

If this applies to you, don't hesitate to speak to a healthcare professional. There are natural solutions and dietary supplements specifically designed to relieve your symptoms during this time of the month. 

The effects of hormones on the menstrual cycle

Menstruation

On the first day of menstruation, FSH production begins . As its name suggests, it will help the small follicle to become a healthy egg.

As the endometrium sheds from the uterus, estrogen and progesterone levels in the blood reach their lowest point. This sudden drop is what causes symptoms like cramps or headaches. Thanks, but no thanks.

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

Before ovulation: the follicular phase

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

At this stage, the endometrium that lines the walls of the uterus thickens.

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

Finally, it is during this phase that the only testosterone peak is observed in females. This hormone could be directly linked to the increase in libido .

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

It's ovulation time, baby!

Like a TikTok star, 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 surge occurs between days 12 and 14. Its peak production is so effective that it triggers the release of the oocyte within 24 to 36 hours.

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

Before menstruation: the luteal phase

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

The ovaries also stop producing estrogen and then progesterone.

It is at this time that we feel more vulnerable and more sensitive to pain. Sudden sugar cravings, pulling sensations in the lower back, mood swings—premenstrual syndrome manifests itself differently in each woman.

Now is the perfect time to slow down and practice self-care. Masturbation is actually an excellent remedy for PMS. Learn more here .

You're now a hormone expert! Congratulations, this is another step towards understanding and accepting your body. If you'd like to continue exploring the wonderful world of menstruation, here's a selection of hand-picked books .