In this article, we take a look at the menstrual cycle, helping you gain a better understanding of its various phases so you can better understand your body, promote your reproductive health, and recognize fertility.
The so-called NFP technique (Natural Family Planning) can help women develop a deeper understanding of their bodies. With some practice and experience, this observation can also be used as a method of contraception.
Now, I will explain what happens in your body during each phase, and afterward, you'll receive the NFP markers to help you accurately track your cycle. Der Menstruationszyklus umfasst im Allgemeinen einen Zeitraum von etwa 21-35 Tagen, die die Länge kann individuell variieren.
Menstrual Phase: The menstrual phase marks the beginning of the cycle and occurs when the uterine lining is shed if fertilization has not taken place. During this time, hormone levels drop to their lowest point, especially progesterone. This hormonal shift affects body temperature, which decreases during the menstrual phase. These changes often result in a feeling of low physical energy. The bleeding typically lasts about 3-7 days.
Follicular Phase: After the menstrual phase, the follicular phase begins, during which an egg matures in the ovaries. During this phase, the uterine lining starts to build up in preparation for a possible pregnancy. The increased estrogen levels promote the growth and thickening of the lining to create optimal conditions for the implantation of a fertilized egg. The follicular phase usually lasts 7-10 days. Libido may increase just before ovulation.
Ovulation Phase: When estrogen levels peak, LH is released, triggering ovulation. The egg travels through the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity and can be fertilized there for about 24 hours (Note: Since sperm can survive in the vagina for up to 8 days in some cases, intercourse several days before ovulation can also lead to pregnancy!). During ovulation, some women may experience mittelschmerz, which is felt as a one-sided stabbing pain or back pain, but it may not be noticeable for everyone. Simultaneously or after ovulation, breast symptoms may occur, where the breasts become fuller and heavier. Additionally, there may be spotting, which can appear as very light bleeding, known as ovulation bleeding. The ovulation phase lasts about 3-4 days.
Luteal Phase: The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next menstruation. During this phase, the follicle that released the egg transforms into the corpus luteum, which becomes an important hormone-producing gland. The progesterone produced by this corpus luteum has significant effects on the female body. It influences not only basal body temperature but also regulates metabolism, digestion, and the condition of the uterine lining. These changes prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy. After about a week, the activity of the corpus luteum decreases, and hormone levels drop. If fertilization has not occurred, the uterine lining is shed, leading to menstruation, and a new menstrual cycle begins.
Introduction to Natural Family Planning (NFP):
NFP is a method in which women observe their fertility based on natural body signals to determine the optimal time for pregnancy or to prevent it. There are several elements of NFP, including:
Basal Temperature Measurement:
Basal temperature refers to your waking temperature, which is measured in the morning before getting out of bed. It’s important to take the measurement at roughly the same time each day and always in the same place (orally, rectally, or vaginally). In the first half of the menstrual cycle, the temperature is usually lower than after ovulation, in the second half of the cycle. The recorded temperatures are then logged in a journal or app. The thermometer used should have two decimal places for precise measurements. However, certain factors can also affect temperature, such as infections, alcohol consumption the night before, changes in the measurement location or time, stress, vacations, and time zone shifts (pay special attention during daylight saving time changes). After 12-16 days, the temperature drops, and menstruation begins. If the temperature remains elevated, it may indicate pregnancy.
Cervical Mucus Observation:
Cervical mucus, also known as "discharge," changes throughout the menstrual cycle. After menstruation, there is often little mucus present, which gradually increases over time. Initially, the mucus is white, cloudy, creamy, lumpy, or sticky. Just before ovulation, cervical mucus becomes more abundant, clear, and stretchy, resembling the consistency of raw egg whites. After ovulation, the discharge decreases again and returns to a consistency similar to the beginning of the cycle.
Checking the Cervix: Observation of the cervix begins right after menstruation to recognize changes more easily. Shortly after menstruation, the cervix is closed and firm, similar to the tip of the nose, and extends far into the vagina. Just before ovulation, the cervix opens, softens (feeling more like an earlobe), and sits higher in the vagina. After ovulation, the cervix closes again and becomes firm once more.
By observing and recording these signs over a long period, you can better understand the female body and your own cycle. NFP Sensiplan can then also be used as a reliable method of contraception.
Have you had any experience with it?
With love,Jana Noel 🤍
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