Menstrual cycle
The monthly process your partner's body goes through as it prepares for a possible pregnancy. It isn't just the days she's bleeding — the whole cycle runs from the first day of one period to the day before the next.
Cycle words, made simple
You don't need to be a doctor to be supportive. These are the terms that may come up when learning how she experiences each month.
Period / menstruation
The part of the cycle when the uterus sheds its lining, causing menstrual bleeding. This is Day 1 of the cycle.
Cycle length
The number of days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. A 28-day cycle is often used as an average, but normal cycles vary from person to person and can vary from month to month.
Period length
The number of days that menstrual bleeding lasts. Five days is a common average, but periods can be shorter or longer.
Follicular phase
The first part of the cycle, starting on Day 1 of the period and continuing until ovulation. Estrogen generally rises during this phase as an egg develops.
Ovulation
When an egg is released from an ovary. In a typical 28-day cycle this happens around the middle of the cycle, but the exact timing varies considerably.
Luteal phase
The part of the cycle after ovulation and before the next period. Progesterone rises after ovulation and then falls if pregnancy doesn't occur.
Estrogen
A group of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, including the development of an egg and changes to the uterine lining. Estrogen levels change throughout the cycle.
Progesterone
A hormone that rises after ovulation and helps prepare and maintain the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy.
PMS — Premenstrual syndrome
A collection of physical and emotional symptoms that some people experience before their period. These can include bloating, breast tenderness, tiredness, irritability, mood changes and cravings. Not everyone experiences PMS.
Fertile window
The days around ovulation when pregnancy is more likely if sperm and an egg meet. The timing can vary, so a calendar prediction shouldn't be treated as reliable contraception.
Libido
Sexual desire or interest. Libido can change throughout the cycle for some people, but there is no universal 'libido schedule'.
Cervical mucus
Fluid produced by the cervix that changes throughout the cycle. It can become thinner and more slippery around ovulation.
Cycle variability
Cycles don't always follow a perfect 28-day pattern. Stress, illness, travel, sleep, changes in weight, contraception and many other factors can affect timing.
Cramping
Pain or discomfort caused by contractions of the uterus during menstruation. Some people experience significant cramps; others experience very little or none.
Bloating
A feeling of fullness, swelling or abdominal discomfort that some people experience around their period or at other points in their cycle.
Cycle awareness
Understanding where someone is in their menstrual cycle and recognising that hormonal and physical changes may affect how they feel — without assuming that the cycle explains their behaviour.