Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you better recognize the changes happening in your body each month.
Every woman’s cycle is unique. Some women have very regular periods, while others may experience more irregular or erratic cycles. A typical menstrual cycle ranges from about 21 to 35 days, though 28 days is often used as a general reference.
At Pregnancy Help Center of South County, we offer pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy and determine how far along you are so that you can make informed decisions.
Day 1: Your Period Begins
Day 1 of the menstrual cycle is the first day of menstrual bleeding. During this phase, the body sheds the uterine lining that had been preparing for a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy did not occur in the previous month, the uterus clears out the stored tissue and blood, beginning a new cycle.
While your period is taking place, your ovaries are already preparing for the next phase of the cycle.
Days 10–14: Preparing for Ovulation
Throughout the first half of the cycle, multiple follicles in the ovaries begin developing eggs. Between days 10 and 14, one follicle becomes dominant and develops one fully mature egg.
As ovulation approaches, you may notice physical changes. Cervical mucus often becomes clear and slippery, which helps sperm travel more easily. Other possible symptoms include:
- Tender breasts
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Light spotting
- Mood changes
- Appetite changes
- Increased sex drive
- Heightened senses of smell, taste, or sight
Not every woman experiences signs of ovulation, and symptoms can vary from cycle to cycle.
Around Day 14: Ovulation Occurs
In a typical 28-day cycle, ovulation usually happens around day 14. A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers the release of a mature egg from the ovary.
The days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation are known as the “fertile window.” This includes the five days before ovulation and the day ovulation occurs. You are most likely to get pregnant during this time if sperm are present in the fallopian tubes.
After ovulation, the egg survives for about 12 to 24 hours before the body reabsorbs it if fertilization does not occur. However, sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for about 3 to 5 days after sex.
If you have questions about your cycle or think you may be pregnant, you can contact Pregnancy Help Center for support. Reach out to schedule a free pregnancy test or ultrasound and receive confidential support and care.