Phases of the menstrual cycle: psychological characteristics.
buymodafinil п»ї<title>Phases of the menstrual cycle: psychological characteristics.</title>
Every month, women have menstruation, a period that we often experience as horrifying, either because we have been taught so or because of our experiences. However, the changes we undergo are part of a natural phenomenon with different phases.
That's right, during the menstrual cycle there are quite distinct stages. Understanding how we can feel in each one will open the doors so that the menstrual cycle is not a negative turning point in our well-being.
In addition to menstruation, which is perhaps the best known phase because of its more obvious characteristics and also because advertising has been more interested in it, there are also: the follicular phase, the ovulation phase and the luteal phase. We will now go into each one of them, see what it is about and what measures we can take so that it does not condition our condition in a negative way.
On the other hand, let's remember that the menstrual cycle is an organic process, so knowing it will also improve communication with our body: we will know how to identify more signals and interpret them better.
Phases of the menstrual cycleThere are 4 phases of the menstrual cycle. In addition, in each one there is a certain production of hormones and neurotransmitters. Thus, thanks to the measurement of this production, we can describe quite accurately what happens in this phase.
The menstrual cycle begins on the first day of the menstrual period and ends one day before the next menstrual period. However, being aware that this varies, we can say that it lasts between 21 and 35.
It is inevitable that the changes that occur in our hormones do not have an impact on the emotional level. Hormones affect the chemical balance of our brain and, therefore, indirectly affect our mood.
Menstruation phaseThe phases of the menstrual cycle condition many of the emotions and behaviors of women during those days. Thus, during menstruation there is a drop in estrogen, a hormone that affects the excitability of the nervous system. It also increases the levels of some neurotransmitters, such as enkephalins, endorphins and serotonin.
When the estrogen level drops, the amount of these neurotransmitters in our body also decreases; the same ones that make us feel good. In addition, the estrogenic decrease lowers the levels of estradiol, a hormone that influences sexual appetite. In parallel, there are also lower levels of progesterone, a hormone that affects nervous tension and irritability.
Now, we could take advantage of this phase to focus on ourselves. This is a period that favors introspection. Therefore, related activities, such as writing, tend to be more fluid. It is also a good time to make decisions that require analysis and calm.
Follicular phaseThe length of the follicular phase, the first phase of the menstrual cycle, varies from woman to woman. It will also depend on the growth of the ovarian follicles. It begins on the day the period starts and culminates with the growth of the egg. At this stage the luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones are produced, which cause estrogens to be generated.
The amount of estrogens increases progressively at this stage, mainly estradiol. This translates at the biological level into an increase in neurotransmitters such as enkephalins, endorphins, and serotonin. And, by day eleven, areas associated with the reward system are activated.
What happens at the biological level is reflected at the psychological level. In this phase, the sensation of happiness and sexual desire increases. In addition, strength and energy increase with the increase of estradiol.
This stage is an unparalleled opportunity to undertake projects. Thanks to the activation of the reward systems, it is a phase that encourages us to plan and achieve goals. At this time, it will be easier to feel that the effort invested has been profitable.
Ovulatory phaseThe next phase of the menstrual cycle is the ovulatory phase. When the egg completes its maturation process, the pituitary gland produces an increase in luteinizing hormone, which is responsible for ovulation. The egg may be fertilized by a sperm within 12 to 36 hours, resulting in pregnancy if fertilization occurs, or the next menstruation if it does not.
What is the process? In this phase estrogens increase, and enzymes are produced that allow the follicular tissue to degrade. This allows the maturation of the ovum to be completed and subsequently released. During this phase, sexual desire and energy increase, thanks to the increase in estrogen together with the influence of oxytocin and serotonin. In addition, it is a favorable period for procreation, since it is the time when we have the best chance of becoming pregnant.
To take advantage of this phase we can see procreation in another way, not the literal one. For example, putting all our energy in being creative, this will help the projects we have to flow. Also, sharing and giving our love and support to those who need us. In this way we nurture our goals, and we empathize and share with others.
Luteal phaseThe last of the phases of the menstrual cycle is the luteal phase. Thus, after ovulation, the corpus luteum is released. This is a structure inside the ovaries that contains the developing egg. If it has not implanted, the corpus luteum stops producing progesterone. Thus, the lining of the uterus will be shed at the next menstrual period.
A week before menstruation, estrogen and progesterone decrease, then there is usually premenstrual syndrome, during which there may be:
Sadness.
Irritability.
Less concentration.
Anxiety.
Bad mood.
Back pain.
Headache.
Decreased sleep.
abdominal pain
cravings
Diarrhea or constipation.
However, there are cases in which a serious limitation may occur because it is in which the symptoms occur with greater intensity. On the other hand, premenstrual dysphoric disorder may appear. Studies on its incidence tell us that 3% to 8% of women are affected.
In fact, a study by Uriel Halbreich and colleagues, published in the journal of Psychoneuroendocrinology, revealed that the deterioration and quality of life of people with this disorder is similar to that of dysthymic disorder.
Even if there is all this avalanche of emotionsEven if there is all this avalanche of emotions, you can take advantage of this phase. How? It is the time to release all the burdens we carry. A great idea is to express our thoughts and feelings, this will make us feel less tense. Then, it is the great opportunity to let go of what does not benefit us.
We could put aside the pessimistic view of the menstrual cycle and see it as an opportunity to connect with ourselves, being aware of our body and mind. We can make the follicular phase a period of reflection and decision, the ovulatory phase a time of expression, the luteal phase a liberating moment and the menstrual phase a period of emotional growth.
Each of the phases of the menstrual cycle manifests itself through our body and mind. Knowing them helps us to know more about ourselves and to turn the changes into great benefits. The menstrual cycle consists of many parts, not everything is negative, it depends on the perspective from which we see it.
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