Quick answer: The menstrual cycle has four phases: menstruation (your period), the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase. A full cycle starts on the first day of your period and usually lasts 24 to 38 days, though every body is different.
Your cycle is more than your period. It's a monthly conversation between your brain, ovaries and uterus, carried by hormones. Getting to know it can help you understand your energy, your moods and your needs.
At Lunam, we also connect each phase with an archetype drawn from ancestral wisdom: the Wise Woman, the Goddess, the Nurturer and the Wild Woman. You can read more about the four archetypes here.
How long is a menstrual cycle?
A cycle starts on the first day of your period and ends the day before the next one begins. For adults it usually lasts 24 to 38 days. It can vary from cycle to cycle and change over the years, and in the first few years after a first period, cycles are often less regular.
The 4 phases at a glance
Menstrual phase: your period, usually 2 to 7 days. Archetype: the Wise Woman.
Follicular phase: from day 1 until ovulation. Archetype: the Goddess.
Ovulation: around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. Archetype: the Nurturer.
Luteal phase: from ovulation until your next period, usually about 12 to 14 days. Archetype: the Wild Woman.
1. Menstrual phase (your period)
If no pregnancy happens, estrogen and progesterone levels drop and the uterus sheds its lining. That's your period, and it usually lasts 2 to 7 days.
The Wise Woman. She is the keeper of wisdom, having passed through every phase of the cycle. Her power is introspection and sensitivity. Energy is often at its lowest now, and you may feel like retreating from the world. Rest is productive here.
2. Follicular phase
The follicular phase begins on the first day of your period and lasts until ovulation, often around 10 to 16 days. The brain releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which helps follicles on the ovaries mature. One becomes dominant and releases more estrogen, which thickens the lining of the uterus.
The Goddess. After your period ends, energy often rises. The Goddess is creative, curious and ready to begin. It's a good time to start new projects and work through your to-do list.
3. Ovulation
A mature egg is released from an ovary and travels down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized for about 12 to 24 hours. In a 28-day cycle this happens around day 14, but timing varies. You're most likely to get pregnant if you have unprotected sex in the days leading up to and including ovulation.
The Nurturer. Sometimes called the Mother, she gives life to ideas, projects and relationships, not only children. You may feel social, energized and drawn to people and nature. It's a great time to gather and collaborate.
4. Luteal phase
After ovulation, progesterone rises to prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy. If no pregnancy happens, progesterone peaks and then falls. These shifts can bring premenstrual symptoms such as mood changes, headaches, breakouts, bloating and breast tenderness.
The Wild Woman. Also called the medicine woman, she lives between worlds and is in the process of letting go. You may feel more irritable, but also deeply intuitive. Journaling can help you notice what comes up.
Frequently asked questions
What are the 4 phases of the menstrual cycle?
Menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation and the luteal phase.
Which phase is the longest?
Usually the follicular phase. It includes your period and lasts until ovulation, and it's also the phase that varies most in length.
Is it normal for my cycle length to change?
Yes, small changes from cycle to cycle are normal. Talk to your doctor if your cycles are often shorter than 24 days or longer than 38 days, or if your periods stop.
