Phases of the menstrual cycle and female sex hormones. The menstrual cycle in women: what is it, a description of each phase 2 4 day of the cycle which phase

The menstrual cycle consists of several phases. The phases of the cycle of menstruation by day are divided by gynecologists as follows:

• menstrual phase: 3 to 6 days;
• the second phase is follicular: about 14 days;
• ovulation phase: about 3 days;
• luteal phase: 14-16 days.

menstrual phase

The beginning of the menstrual cycle should be considered the first day of the onset of menstruation. This physiological process occurs due to the rejection of the endometrium of the uterus. Bloody discharge in each woman can have a different character: from heavy bleeding to smearing. When the endometrium of the uterus is shed, the body prepares for the formation of a new egg. Each menstrual cycle is the preparation of the female body for fertilization and pregnancy.

The first phase of the cycle is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, weakness, drowsiness and irritability. These days it is better to refrain from physical activity and, if the life schedule allows, to rest more and stay in a calm atmosphere.

Painful sensations can be reduced by such drugs: Tamipul, Spazmalgon, No-shpa, Paracetamol. It should be noted that all medicines should be taken only after the recommendation of the doctor.

In healthy women, these symptoms appear in a mild form. Often the cause of painful menstruation can be:

1. Heredity. If a mother or grandmother suffered from pain before menstruation, then there is a high probability of these manifestations in the next generations.
2. Pathology of the uterus: bend, curvature or underdevelopment of the organ. In this case, the pain syndrome will accompany menstruation even in women who have given birth.
3. The occurrence of tension in the pelvis due to contraction of the uterine muscles.
4. Compression of nerve endings due to enlargement of the uterus.
5. Increased sensitivity of the body to ongoing physiological processes.
6. An increase in prostaglandin hormones, which act on the genitals and thus cause pain.
7. Stagnation of blood in the pelvis and swelling of the tissues.
8. Intrauterine device. It can cause intense contraction of the muscles of the uterus, resulting in pain.

However, very often painful periods are associated with inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs. To make sure that these manifestations are absent, it is necessary to be examined by a doctor and, if necessary, undergo a course of treatment.

During menstruation, a healthy woman loses about 10 ml of blood. To avoid anemia, these days you should eat more fruits, vegetables containing iron, and also take a complex of vitamins. This applies primarily to teenage girls, whose body is not yet fully formed.

During this period, fresh air and a calm environment are useful for a woman. Family members should not forget that during the period of menstruation, complex hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body, which is why she perceives everything very sharply, she can be irritable and unbalanced. Therefore, the best medicine these days for a woman will be support and understanding from relatives.

Follicular phase and ovulation

The second phase of the monthly cycle lasts about 2 weeks after the end of bleeding. However, stress and lifestyle changes can interfere with the normal duration of this phase.

During this period, the ovaries produce a hormone that stimulates the development of follicles, FSH. In the dominant follicle, the ovum subsequently matures.

The follicular phase is characterized by the release of the hormone estrogen, which promotes the renewal of the uterine wall. This hormone affects the biological environment in the cervix, making it insensitive to sperm. Nature decreed that during this period the female body is preparing for fertilization, and premature ingestion of sperm is undesirable.

Estrogen is considered the main beauty hormone. Skin, hair and nails become strong and beautiful. During this period, any cosmetic procedures are appropriate.

On day 14, the body releases the luteinizing hormone LH, while the production of the hormone FSH decreases. The LH hormone has a beneficial effect on the mucus in the cervix, making it receptive to sperm. Under the influence of this hormone, the maturation of the egg ends and it is released from the follicle.

This process is called ovulation, which lasts from 2 to 4 days. This is the most favorable time for conception. Many girls who want to get pregnant calculate these days according to the calendar.

The mature egg moves through the fallopian tubes, where it waits for a meeting with the sperm within 2 days. Spermatozoa are able to live for about 5 days, so if sexual intercourse occurred shortly before ovulation, then there will be a high probability of fertilization of the egg.

In this phase, the girls' appetite increases, which threatens with rapid weight gain. This is due to the accumulation of the necessary nutrients in the body in case of a possible pregnancy. At this time, it is better to increase the consumption of dairy products and plant foods.

The probability of conception is possible already from the 9th day of the cycle. There is even a certain theory of conception of the desired sex of the child. If parents dream of a girl, then sexual intercourse should be performed before ovulation, since the X chromosome, which determines the female sex, is more viable. And if the desired sex of the child is male, then it should be conceived on the days of ovulation - on the 12-14th day of the cycle.

In ancient Eastern teachings, it is said that before ovulation, a woman accumulates energy, and after ovulation, it is redistributed. Saving energy allows a woman to achieve harmony and peace of mind.

Women during the period of ovulation have a special smell that attracts men. She shines with beauty, health, and her sexuality these days is at the highest level.

Luteal phase of the menstrual cycle

After the release of the egg, the empty follicle, or corpus luteum, begins to produce the hormone progesterone. It prepares the endometrium of the uterine cavity for the introduction of a fertilized egg. At this time, the production of the LH hormone ends and the cervical mucus dries up.

The luteal phase lasts 14 to 16 days. The female body is preparing for the introduction of the embryo. This process occurs within 6-12 days after fertilization. As soon as this has happened, the production of the hormone chorionic gonadotropin begins. It supports the function of the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone throughout pregnancy, which ensures the normal bearing of the child.

Modern pregnancy tests are sensitive specifically to human chorionic gonadotropin, which is called the pregnancy hormone.

If fertilization does not occur, then the corpus luteum and the egg die off, and the production of progesterone stops. The endometrium of the uterus also begins to collapse.

From the 20th day of the cycle, the concentration of luteinizing hormone decreases and the corpus luteum begins to reverse development in the ovary. It is believed that from this day the probability of getting pregnant becomes minimal.

At the end of the luteal phase, the top layer of the uterus begins to shed and subsequently exits with menstrual flow. This is the beginning of a new cycle.

In the final phase of the menstrual cycle, the metabolism slows down. A week before the onset of menstruation, the work of the sebaceous glands of the skin intensifies. Girls get skin rashes. These days it is advisable to refrain from physical activity, as the connective tissues become more vulnerable.

PMS - premenstrual syndrome - affects not only the appearance, but also the mental state of a woman. As a result of a drop in hormone levels, a woman becomes vulnerable and vulnerable, she needs the support and understanding of her relatives.

The mammary glands increase in size, there is daytime sleepiness, a feeling of anxiety or apathy. Gynecologists advise these days such "medicines" as sex and chocolate. However, in some women during PMS, libido decreases, so chocolate remains, which contributes to the production of the hormone of happiness.

The length of the menstrual cycle is different for every woman.

Therefore, the duration of the monthly phases for each woman may be different.

Cycles lasting from 21 to 32 days are considered normal.

The calendar method developed by gynecologists in the 20s. of the last century, is used both to increase the chances of getting pregnant, and as a natural method of protection. In the first case, it significantly increases the likelihood of conception.

However, as a method of contraception, it is recognized as very unreliable. Of the 100 women who are protected with it, 40 are at risk of becoming pregnant. This is due to the instability of the female individual cycle.

The method for calculating the maximum probable time of conception and “safe” days is based on the patterns of the rhythm of the reproductive renewal of the female body - the menstrual cycle, the phases of which, depending on the readiness for fertilization and bearing a child, change the hormonal background of a woman and the genitals inside her body.

To determine how long after menstruation you can get pregnant, you need to reliably predict the date of ovulation. Conception of a child is possible only on those days when the egg moves to the uterus through the fallopian tube.

Due to the variable duration of the first phase of the cycle, it is not always possible to accurately predict the day on which the egg leaves the ovary.

When exactly does ovulation occur?

The menstrual cycle is rarely constant. Even a well-established and seemingly strictly periodic rhythm can be affected by various stress factors. A common cold, overwork, or moving to a place with a different climate cause disruptions that can either speed up the maturation of the egg or slow it down.

Due to the variable duration of the first phase of the cycle, it is not always possible to accurately predict which day after menstruation it is possible to become pregnant.

Ovulation begins at the moment when, under the influence of the hormone produced by the pituitary gland, the mature dominant ovary, which has already become a bubble, bursts and releases the egg.

It's important to know! Conception can occur if male sex cells enter the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity during the time called the "fertile window". It lasts about 5 days and is determined not so much by the life span of the egg, which is about 24 hours, but by the viability of the spermatozoa, which remain active for 3–7 days.

The onset of ovulation depends entirely on the time of maturation of the follicle with the egg. It can last 7 days and come immediately after the critical days, or it can drag on for three weeks.

In women with a well-established monthly cycle that does not make sharp jumps, the approximate time of ovulation occurs 13-14 days before the expected period, since the duration of the third phase, unlike the first, is constant.

How long after menstruation can you get pregnant

Given that spermatozoa after entering the body of a woman are viable for 3-5 days, you should make an allowance for this fact when calculating the favorable period for conception. Thus, the time is added to the days of ovulation when male cells can wait for it. while in a favorable mucosal environment.

Note! If for some reason the woman's body fails, and the maturation of the egg is delayed, ovulation will not occur in the prescribed two weeks. After menstruation, a rather long period of time can form when it is impossible to get pregnant.

Besides, rare, but there is such a thing as spontaneous ovulation when, for reasons that have not yet been studied, eggs in one cycle instead of one mature two at different times. Then it is impossible to predict the time of conception, it can occur even during menstruation.

Is it possible to get pregnant after menstruation for 1-3 days

If we consider the most common 28-day cycle, in which 3-7 fall on critical days, we can say with confidence that in the first three days after them, sexual intercourse will not lead to pregnancy.

Be careful! Protracted, long periods reduce the time interval between their end and the beginning of the "fertile window". The formation and maturation of follicles occurs independently of bleeding. When calculating "safe" days, it is necessary to take into account the duration of menstruation.

Is it possible to get pregnant 4-5 days after menstruation

If the critical days are short, 3-4 days, unprotected sex on the 4th or 5th day after them does not threaten pregnancy. However, women whose periods last longer, these days are already entering a period when you need to be more careful and attentive.

• with short critical days - for 5-6 days;
• with critical days lasting a week or longer - for 2-3 days;
• you also need to keep in mind that the sperm of a healthy man can, in a favorable environment, retain its qualities not only for the estimated 3-5 days, but in some cases up to 7. This should also be corrected if pregnancy is undesirable.

Is it possible to get pregnant 6-9 days after menstruation

At this time, the chances of getting pregnant are high. In just a couple of days, you can expect ovulation. If during and after menstruation there were no serious shocks or diseases, it will come on time.

If we assume that ovulation takes place on the 14-15th day of the cycle, then the possibility of becoming pregnant begins from the 9-10th day from its beginning.

Women who dream of a child these days are especially careful about their health and the health of their couple. They avoid bad habits and use this short time for intimacy, because after 3-4 days the favorable period will end.

Those who are not ready for motherhood consider this gap to be a zone of increased caution, and do not allow sexual acts without contraception.

On what day after menstruation can you definitely get pregnant

You can definitely get pregnant at a time when the egg is in the fallopian tube, and has not yet entered the uterus. That is 1 day after ovulation. Ideally, this happens 7-11 days after the end of menstruation, depending on their duration.

To know at what time this will happen, gynecologists advise drawing up schedules and calendars for the monthly cycle.

There are several effective ways to determine the day of ovulation.

Measurement of basal temperature

This is the morning temperature in the rectum, vagina, or mouth. The temperature in the third phase of the female cycle will be 0.5 degrees higher than in the first phase.

On the day when the measurement shows a jump in temperature up (by 0.2 degrees, for example), ovulation occurs. It often happens that during ovulation the temperature drops sharply, and the next day it rises again.

It is recommended to take such measurements for several months at the same time before getting out of bed, in one body cavity, with the same thermometer. From the graph of such observations, it can be seen whether the first phase is stable in duration and the probable time of conception.

Ultrasound procedure

This is the most accurate method. Ultrasound monitors the growth and condition of the follicle. After the end of bleeding, such a study is carried out every day until ovulation.

LH (luteinizing hormone) test

This is the most affordable and easiest way. Such a test, equipped with detailed instructions, is sold in pharmacies. It is designed to determine the date of ovulation 5-6 days before its onset.

Factors that increase the chance of getting pregnant after menstruation

Is it possible to promote conception, after the prescribed time after menstruation, and how to increase the chances of getting pregnant, will be discussed further.

Literally all the circumstances of her life, both negative and positive, affect the hormonal background of a woman. This is because the main reproductive functions are triggered by processes that occur in parts of the brain that are very sensitive to stress - the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

It is their secretion that commands the ovaries, adrenal glands and thyroid gland to secrete hormones, without which the egg does not mature. Therefore, for timely conception, you need to create the most comfortable conditions for the body.

It is also important to what extent the internal environment of female organs is able to support the life of male germ cells. And, of course, the health of the future father is one of the main factors contributing to the timely conception of a child.

In order for pregnancy to occur at the most favorable time, a woman needs:

1. Limit stress capable of inhibiting the maturation of follicles. Avoid nervous tension, overwork, excessive exertion, hypothermia and viral infections during and after menstruation.
2. Follow the dietitian's recommendations to reduce the acidity and aggressiveness of internal fluids and mucous membranes.
3. Carefully adhere to the rules of personal hygiene so as not to provoke inflammation in the genital area.
4. Give up alcohol and tobacco, because they inhibit the secretory functions of the hormonal glands.
5. Be attentive to the health and lifestyle of the spouse, because these rules should be followed by him.

How to calculate which days you can get pregnant

To be sure of a positive result of the efforts made, if there is a firm decision to replenish the family, or to protect yourself from an unexpected, unplanned pregnancy, a woman needs to learn the intricacies of her personal menstrual cycle.

Having learned to predict ovulation, observing the changes in your body from phase to phase and finding out how certain external factors affect their duration, you can quickly figure out which days intimacy with a partner will lead to conception, and which will not happen.

The calendar of days favorable for conception is calculated in the following sequence:

You can get pregnant in the first, most unpredictable phase of the monthly cycle. To calculate the time after menstruation, after which the most fertile days for conception come, you need to make sure that your female rhythms are regular.

In case of any hormonal failures and disorders, using a calendar for pregnancy planning is useless.

How long after menstruation can you get pregnant:

When does ovulation occur, how many days after menstruation:

During the menstrual cycle, the reproductive system is rebuilt, which affects the well-being and psycho-emotional state of a woman. Cyclic changes are necessary to prepare the body for conception. Every woman knows what critical days are, but only a few have an idea about the duration and phases of the cycle.

Sometimes ignorance leads to the development of serious pathologies, because a woman is not able to recognize a deviation from the norm and consult a specialist in a timely manner. To avoid this, you should get acquainted with the characteristics of the female body, having studied the phases of the menstrual period and the manifestations of possible pathologies.

Menstrual cycle - what is it?

The menstrual cycle is the period that begins on the first day of menstruation and ends with the arrival of the next menstruation. Since every woman has it in her own way, the concept of his "normality" is rather vague. To characterize the menstrual cycle, experts use the following concepts:

• How long is the cycle. The time interval between the beginning of two subsequent menstruation: 1 day of menstruation is the beginning of the next cycle and the end of the previous one. Many women mark the beginning of critical days in a special calendar and, by counting the number of days between menstruation, know the duration of their cycle. Keeping a calendar allows you to control the stability of the cycle and clearly demonstrates any failures. If the menstrual cycle lasts from 25 to 35 days, this is the norm. In 60% of women, the cycle length is 28 days.
• duration of menstruation. Menstruation lasts from 3 days to a week. Only 25% of women have periods longer than 7 days.
• The volume of blood loss during menstruation. Normal values ​​​​are from 40 to 150 ml. If a woman uses more than 4 sanitary pads every day, this is normal. Menstrual flow should not contain a large amount of mucus, clots. If the monthly pass normally, the amount of discharge gradually decreases. Heavy bleeding rarely lasts more than 3 days. On such days, a woman may feel a pulling pain in the uterus.

In 30% of women who do not have gynecological pathologies, the menstrual period passes according to individual "standards", without affecting the reproductive functions of the body. This feature is noted from the first menstruation and continues until the onset of menopause.

Phases of the cycle: what happens in the body?

Developing under the influence of hormones, cyclic changes affect the physiology of a woman, her emotional state. The phases of the menstrual period are structural and hormonal changes of a cyclic nature that occur in the female body, ensuring the implementation of the reproductive function. Influencing the sexual sphere and the work of the whole organism, the hormonal function of the ovaries plays a key role in the foundation of the cycle.

The central part of the nervous system (pituitary gland, hypothalamus) is involved in the formation of the menstrual period. At each stage, hormonal changes occur in the ovaries, leading to a change in the structure of the endometrium.

The pituitary gland produces hormones that affect the functioning of the ovaries: FSH (to stimulate the follicle), LH, prolactin. According to the phases of the cycle, the hypothalamus releases releasing hormones that enter the pituitary gland during the cycle. Pituitary hormones stimulate the maturation of the egg, ensuring the implementation of the reproductive function.

Conventionally, the 1st and 2nd phases of the female period have the same duration, but different structural and hormonal changes. Almost always each of them lasts about 14 days. Since ovulation occurs between phases, it is considered to occur in the middle of the cycle.

First phase

The follicular phase begins with the next menstruation and ends with a short period of ovulation. At this time, the egg begins to grow and develop. Of the many liquid vesicles located in the female ovaries, those are outlined that will increase this month.

The development of the follicle is supported by estrogen, the production of which gradually increases. On the 7th day of the cycle, one follicle grows larger than the others and continues to grow the egg. The rest of the bubbles stop growing. Gradually, the level of estrogen reaches its maximum level, the diameter of the follicle grows to 20–25 mm, and the hormone LH is released, which is a harbinger of ovulation.

Second phase

If conception did not occur during ovulation, after a day the egg dies and the luteal phase starts, which ends with the beginning of the next critical days. From the fragments of the burst follicle, a cell begins to grow, which is transformed into a temporary yellow gland that produces progesterone.

Under the influence of the pregnancy hormone, the endometrium becomes softer, "breathable" and thick enough for the fetal egg to be firmly embedded in the wall of the reproductive organ. If conception occurs during ovulation, the second phase is responsible for the onset and development of pregnancy until the placenta is formed. If fertilization does not happen, by the beginning of the next cycle, the temporary gland will disappear.

When do phases start and how long do they last?

Numerous studies have proven that the value of the second phase is 14 days. Any deviation from the norm indicates the presence of a pathological failure in the female reproductive system. The size of the first phase is individual for each woman. With a 28-day cycle length, the first phase lasts and develops as follows:

• the first two days of menstruation - there are pains of a pulling nature in the lower abdomen, spotting, mood worsens, performance decreases, irritability increases;
• from 3 to 6 days the emotional state is normalized, the state of health improves;
• from 7 to 12 days, a woman has a good mood, increased working capacity and sexual desire;
• From the 13th to the 14th day, the body prepares for ovulation.

If the first phase has a different duration, the development scheme fits between 7 - 21 days. Then the second phase begins smoothly, the duration of which is always 14 days:

• From the 15th to the 22nd day, a stable psycho-emotional and physical state is noted. If, however, conception occurred during the period of ovulation, on the 20-22nd day, when the embryo is fixed to the uterine wall, scanty spotting and mild abdominal pain may appear.
• If fertilization does not happen, from the 23rd to the 28th day, the woman has signs of premenstrual syndrome: a sharp change in mood, irritability, depression, swelling of the mammary glands.

Possible pathologies: when to see a doctor?

The menstrual cycle must be stable, and any discrepancies in its duration should not be more than 72 hours. If the regular duration of both phases is 25 days, and in some month it has increased to 32 days, this indicates a malfunction in the body and requires specialist advice.

It happens that menstrual disorders are provoked by the formation of functional cysts. As a rule, such neoplasms go away on their own. If this phenomenon is regular, it is necessary to donate blood to determine the level of hormones.

For several periods, the nature of the discharge in the ovulation period of time almost does not change. If intermenstrual bleeding appears, you should consult a gynecologist, since this symptom may indicate the following pathologies:

• polyps;
• myoma;
• hormonal disorders;
• polycystic;
• hyperplasia of the inner layer of the uterus;
• vaginal trauma;
• long-term use of oral contraceptives.

During ovulation, the cervix becomes softer and opens. Since the secretions contain remnants of the rejected endometrium and blood after critical days, they have a brownish tint. If this happens infrequently, and the discharge is spotty and short-lived, there is no reason to panic. In severe liver diseases, vascular fragility, vaginal infections, dark-colored discharge appears in the middle of the cycle.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, candidiasis are accompanied by yellow discharge. To this symptom is added a repulsive odor, vaginal itching, swelling, redness of the labia, soreness during sex.

If the discharge changes color, viscosity, smell and is profuse, a woman should consult a doctor. Medical attention is needed if the following symptoms appear:

• temperature rise;
• itching in the vagina;
• pain in the abdomen and lower back.

If the discharge has a dirty red tint and an unpleasant odor, this may indicate a neoplasm in the female genital area. This symptom is a good reason for visiting a gynecologist and a subsequent examination.

Fig.: Phases of the menstrual cycle

Periods (phases) of the menstrual cycle

In each menstrual cycle, a woman's body prepares for pregnancy. The menstrual cycle can be divided into several periods (phases).

Most often, the duration of the menstrual cycle is 28 calendar days. However, for each woman it is strictly individual; it is normal if it fits in the interval from 21 to 35 days. The main factor is its constancy throughout the entire reproductive period, the permissible deviations are no more than 3 days. An important indicator is also the amount of discharge and the well-being of a woman during this period. Any changes in the normal rhythm, signs of malaise are a reason to see a doctor, as they may well be the first signs of the disease.

menstrual period of the cycle

The functioning of the female reproductive system is subject to four main periods. The first of them is menstrual, it is the most painful, it is at this time that spotting is observed. Its normal duration is 3 to 6 days. At this stage, there is a rejection and expulsion of the inner lining of the uterus - the endometrium, along with an unfertilized egg. Thus, the first day of bleeding is the beginning of the menstrual cycle.

Follicular period of the cycle

Then follows the follicular period, characterized by the cessation of secretions. At this time, an increased synthesis of hormones from the pituitary and hypothalamus begins, which affect the ovaries. The main one is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which causes intensive growth and development of several follicles. The ovaries, in turn, produce the sex hormone estrogen; its significance is to stimulate the renewal of the endometrium and prepare the uterus to accept the egg. This stage lasts about two weeks and ends due to the release of hormones into the blood that suppress the activity of FSH.

Ovulation

The ovulation phase begins, that is, the release of a mature egg from the follicle. As a rule, this is the largest of them. This is facilitated by a sharp increase in the level of luteinizing hormone (LH). The egg enters the lumen of the fallopian tube and begins its movement towards the uterus, while waiting for fertilization. The duration of her life does not exceed two days, therefore, to increase the likelihood of conception, it is necessary that the sperm is already in the fallopian tube. In the uterus at this time, the process of preparing the epithelial layer continues.

luteinizing period of the cycle

The final period of the menstrual cycle is luteinizing. Its duration, as a rule, does not exceed 16 days. At this time, in place of the follicle that the egg left, a special temporary gland is formed - the corpus luteum. It produces progesterone, designed to increase the sensitivity of the endometrium, in order to facilitate the introduction of a fertilized egg into the uterine wall. If implantation does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses and progesterone levels plummet. This causes destruction and subsequent rejection of the epithelial layer, the cycle closes.

Phases of the menstrual cycle

First phase (follicular, or egg development) Day 1-5. Menstruation. Typically, menstruation lasts from 2 to 7 days, with an average of 5 days. During this phase, the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is shed and menstruation begins. Uterine contractions at this point may be accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen. Some women have short periods (eg 2 days), while others can last up to 7 days. Bleeding may be profuse and spotting. In the first half of the menstrual cycle, a follicle grows in the ovary, where an egg develops and matures, which then leaves the ovary (ovulation). This phase lasts about 7-21 days, depending on many factors.	Ovulation Day 14. Release of the egg. Usually ovulation occurs from the 7th to the 21st day of the cycle, more often in the middle of the menstrual cycle (approximately on the 14th day in a 28-day cycle). After leaving the ovary, the mature egg moves to the uterus through the fallopian tubes.	Second phase (formation of the corpus luteum) Day 15-28. Thickening of the inner lining of the uterus. After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces the hormone progesterone.

In this analysis, the “ideal” 28-day cycle is taken as an example.

Day 1

The day of the onset of menstrual bleeding is the first day of the cycle. Bleeding occurs due to rejection of the endometrium - the layer of the uterine mucosa, the "feather bed". This happens against the background of a decrease in the concentration of the main "female" hormones - progesterone and estrogen. During this period, the number of prostaglandins (mediators of pain) that stimulate the contractility of the uterus increases. What is good for the body (the uterus contracts, getting rid of the old endometrium), for a woman becomes an extremely unpleasant moment of everyday life, because the first day of menstruation in most cases is accompanied by pain and heaviness in the lower abdomen. Painkillers, often taken during this period, have serious side effects - they irritate the gastric mucosa, and, as a result, contribute to the development of peptic ulcer. That is why, the best approach to solving the problem of menstrual pain is to take natural preparations.

Day 2
The most “important” follicle begins to develop in the body, carrying the egg. Discomfort and soreness may persist, while sensitivity to pain is still high. I so want to be beautiful, but it is at this moment that hormones work against us. Due to the low production of estrogen, the activity of the sweat and sebaceous glands becomes more intense. It is important to pay more attention to your skin, for example, use soft makeup. It should be remembered that now the hair changes its chemical structure and is less amenable to styling, and hair coloring done during menstruation lasts less. During this period, a visit to the dentist, hair removal and other unpleasant manipulations should be postponed for 4-5 days.

Day 3

In the uterus, after rejection of the mucous membrane, a wound surface is formed, in addition, the cervix these days is as open as possible. Due to these factors, there is a high probability of infection, which means it is advisable to abstain from sex, or at least protect yourself with barrier contraceptive methods.

Day 4

"Critical days" are coming to an end, and therefore the mood rises significantly, but you should not overestimate yourself. At this time, any activity associated with heavy physical exertion is contraindicated, however, light morning exercises help to reduce the duration of menstruation and the volume of blood loss.

Day 5

The healing process in the uterus is completed. On average, during a normal menstruation, a woman loses about 100 ml of blood, which is not so much, but if menstruation continues for more than 5 days, and the discharge is abundant, then a woman may develop iron deficiency anemia.

Days 6 and 7

In the renewed body, the metabolism is accelerated - extra calories are burned more intensively, protein is synthesized more actively for muscles, fat is broken down, the overall tone of the body, endurance and strength increase. The “important” follicle, which grows every day, forms more and more estrogens. At the same time, the level of testosterone begins to rise, which in the female body is responsible for the qualities usually attributed to men: a sharp mind, good performance, excellent memory and the ability to concentrate. Estrogen and testosterone together drive away habitual drowsiness, give vivacity and freshness of thoughts better than any coffee.

Day 8

Now every day the concentration in the blood of estrogen, the main hormone of femininity, is increasing. Skin, hair and nails become the most receptive to various cosmetic procedures and simply shine with health. After the depilation carried out these days, the skin remains smooth and tender longer than usual.

Days 9 and 10

There is nothing left until ovulation. These days, the chances of getting pregnant are significantly increased. If you dream of having a girl, now is your time! There is a theory that X-chromosome spermatozoa (which determine the female sex of the unborn child) are able to “wait” for the release of the egg from the ovary in the female genital tract longer, so you have about 4-5 days left. On the day of ovulation and immediately after it, the opportunity to conceive a boy increases.

Days 11 and 12

By this day, thoughts about work are increasingly moving away, and about love really absorbs your entire consciousness. The main hormones responsible for female sexuality and libido occupy a leading position. In a woman, the excitability and sensitivity of erogenous zones increases, and a special smell appears that can attract male attention.

Days 13 and 14

Under the influence of estrogen, the wall of the mature follicle bursts, and the egg is released into the abdominal cavity. At the same time, a small amount of blood is poured into the abdominal cavity, and some women may even feel pain in the lower abdomen on the right or left (depending on which ovary occurred in). When it enters the abdominal cavity, the egg is captured by the fallopian tube and sent towards the "male principle". On the day of ovulation, a woman has the highest libido and is able to experience the most vivid sensations from intimacy with a man. Sexologists say that if a woman regularly abstains from sex on the days of ovulation (for fear of unwanted pregnancy) and does not experience an orgasm, then her libido can steadily decline over time. In order for the spermatozoa to reach the egg as quickly as possible, the mucus that protects the entrance to the uterus is thinned, and casual sex these days is fraught with sexually transmitted diseases.

Day 15

In place of the bursting follicle, a corpus luteum begins to form. This is a special formation, and, regardless of whether fertilization has occurred or not, it will prepare the body for pregnancy within 7-8 days. The yellow body begins to produce the hormone progesterone - the main hormone of pregnancy, its goal is to turn an active and carefree girl into a future mother.

Day 16

Progesterone begins the preparation of the uterine lining for egg implantation. Be especially careful with carbohydrates, as appetite increases in this phase of the cycle, weight gain is the fastest.

Day 17 and 18

The body actively stores nutrients for the future, as a result of which fat metabolism changes. Excess fat significantly spoils the figure and creates an increased load on the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, in this phase of the cycle, try to increase the proportion of vegetable fats in your daily diet, add garlic and red fish to your diet, enrich your diet with dairy products and fiber.

Day 19

Although ovulation is over, during the second phase of the cycle, the body retains a fairly high level of testosterone, which increases libido. Testosterone production is higher in the morning - fill the dawn hours with passion and tenderness.

Day 20

The flowering of the corpus luteum and the concentration of progesterone in the blood reaches its maximum value. At this time, the egg, moving through the fallopian tube, approaches the uterus. It is believed that from this day the probability of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

Days 21 and 22

Against the background of an increased level of progesterone, which acts as an antidepressant, we become “impenetrable” for troubles and other stressful situations.

Day 23

There are changes in the structure of the connective tissue: hypermobility appears in the joints, ligaments become more extensible. Women receive the greatest number of injuries, especially those related to sports, on these days.

Day 24

These days, due to the difference in hormone levels, there may be problems with bowel function. The activity of the sebaceous glands increases, the pores expand, acne may appear. Try to pay more attention to your diet these days.

Day 25

A woman has a special smell that allows a man to feel that a forced period of abstinence is coming. It is likely that this fact is the reason for the synchronization of cycles in several women living together for a long time.

Days 26 to 28

A woman becomes sensitive and vulnerable, at this time she needs support. The mammary glands become rough and painful, daytime sleepiness, headache, anxiety, lethargy and irritability - is this enough to ruin your mood? Experts believe that chocolate and sex can become an excellent medicine these days.

reproductive system responsible for the reproduction (reproduction) of a person. The main links of this system are the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries and uterus. Outside of pregnancy, a woman's reproductive system works cyclically. The most striking manifestation of its cyclic function is regular menstruation.

Menses- This is regular monthly spotting from the woman's vagina. Menstruation is one of the most striking features inherent only in the female body.

All processes in the reproductive system of a mature woman proceed cyclically, i.e. with a certain periodicity, repetition, and the most striking manifestation of the end of one cycle and the beginning of another is menstruation.

Menstrual cycle- this is the period from one menstruation to another and it is considered from the first day of the previous menstruation to the first day of the next.

The normal duration of the menstrual cycle is 21-35 days. In addition to duration, regularity is very important here. Ideally, when the duration of the individual cycle does not change from month to month. Variations within 3 days are acceptable. Consider a standard 28-day cycle. Normally, in a healthy woman, the menstrual cycle has 2 phases. With a 28-day cycle, the first and second phases have 14 days each. In the first 14 days, a woman's body prepares for a possible pregnancy. In the brain, the pituitary gland produces two main hormones that affect a woman's menstrual cycle: follicle-stimulating (FSH) and luteinizing (LH).

Under the influence of FSH, an egg matures in one of the ovaries, and a thickening of the inner membrane occurs in the uterus in order to accept a fertilized egg. The main hormone released into the blood is estrogen. It contributes to the fact that a woman looks good, active and cheerful.

Happens after 2 weeks ovulation- the release of a mature egg from the ovary.

This process occurs due to a sharp increase in the level of LH in the blood, which reaches its peak. At this point, some women experience a slight pulling sensation in the lower abdomen. Very rarely there may be spotting from the genital tract. After the release of the egg into the abdominal cavity, it is captured in the ampulla of the fallopian tube and very slowly begins to move along it. If at this moment spermatozoa meet on her way, fertilization will occur and pregnancy will occur.

From the moment of ovulation, the second phase of the cycle begins, its main hormone is progesterone. At this time, at the site of the release of the egg in the ovary, under the influence of LH, the corpus luteum matures, which, in the event of pregnancy, will at first ensure its safety. In the uterus, the inner lining loosens up to accept a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, hormone levels drop sharply and the lining of the uterus is gradually shed along with a small amount of blood - menstruation begins. This marks the end of one menstrual cycle and the beginning of the next.

An “ideal” menstrual cycle is considered to be an ovulatory fully hormonally provided menstrual cycle lasting 28-30 days.

Many gynecological and serious therapeutic diseases can cause a “breakdown” of the reproductive system, which will be reflected in all kinds of menstrual irregularities (bleeding, irregular menstruation, their absence) and infertility.

Types of menstrual dysfunction

Lack of independent menstruation in a woman's life

Secondary amenorrhea- absence of independent menstruation for 6 months or more

Polymenorrhea- frequent menstruation (cycle less than 21 days)

Oligomenorrhea- rare menstruation (cycle more than 35 days)

Dysmenorrhea- painful menstruation

metrorrhagia- irregular uterine bleeding

Menometrorrhagia- profuse frequent prolonged menstruation

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding- abnormal uterine bleeding due to hormonal disorders of the reproductive system.

Among the menstrual disorders, the most common are irregular menstruation, luteal insufficiency (LFL) and anovulation (absence of ovulation).

Why is ovulation necessary?

Ovulation- this is the release of a mature egg capable of fertilization from the ovarian follicle.

Ovulation- the most important condition for the onset of pregnancy. In women of childbearing age, it occurs in almost every cycle. Its frequency is regulated by the hormones of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries.

Signs of ovulation can be short-term pain in the lower abdomen, an increase in mucous secretions from the vagina in the middle of the cycle, a decrease in basal temperature on the day of ovulation, followed by its increase.

Objective diagnosis of ovulation is possible according to ultrasound, ovulation tests, plasma progesterone levels on the 21-23rd day of the cycle.

anovulation A condition in which a woman does not ovulate. Among the causes of infertility, ovulation disorder is 27%.

Violation of ovulation processes (late ovulation, its absence) leads not only to impaired reproductive function - infertility, but also to NLF, and, consequently, to menstrual disorders - rare irregular menstruation, dysfunctional uterine bleeding.