what is the female hormonal cycle

The female hormonal cycle, typically about 28 days but varying among individuals, consists of several phases characterized by fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Here’s a breakdown of its main phases:

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5):

   • Begins on day one of bleeding (menstruation), marking the shedding of the uterine lining 1.
   • Hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) are low at this stage.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-14):

   • At the end of menstruation, the pituitary gland releases Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), promoting the growth of ovarian follicles.
   • As follicles mature, they produce estrogen, resulting in increased energy and mood elevation 1.
   • The peak of estrogen occurs just before ovulation.

3. Ovulation (Around Day 14):

   • Triggered by a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH), one mature egg is released from the ovary.
   • This phase often coincides with heightened libido due to increased estrogen and androgens 2.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):

   • Post-ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, producing progesterone, which prepares the uterine lining for potential implantation.
   • If fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, leading to menstruation 3.
     • 

       1

       Hormonal Chaos Explained

       00:09:58
       
     • 

       2

       Understanding Menstrual Cycle

       01:01:11
       
     • 

       3

       Menstrual Cycle Insights

       00:58:13
       
     • 

       4

       Female Reproductive Cycle

       00:55:07
       
     • 

       5

       Hormonal Dynamics Explained

       01:05:37
       
     • 

       6

       Menstrual Cycle Insights

       00:26:04
       
   • Some women may experience PMS symptoms, often due to the rapid drop in estrogen and progesterone 4.

Key Hormones and Their Functions

• Estrogen: Dominates the follicular phase, critical for follicle growth and mood enhancement.
• Progesterone: Peaks in the luteal phase, essential for maintaining the uterine lining.

Variability in Experience

• Each woman's cycle can vary significantly in length and symptoms; some may experience premenstrual symptoms or changes in mood, energy, and libido at different times in their cycle 5.
• Regular tracking of the cycle can help in understanding and managing health and fitness effectively.

For a deeper exploration of these concepts, consider listening to the episode with Dr. Natalie Crawford on female hormone health from the Huberman Lab 6.