MENSTRUAL CYCLE
As we are unique beings, every menstrual cycle will be individual but there is often a general pattern which is considered the norm.
Normal menstruation commonly begins before 16 years of age until the menopause which usually occurs any time after the age of 40, the average age being 52 years. Bleeding normally lasts no more than 7 days and blood loss should not be more than 80mls.
A normal cycle length is typically 28 days but can be anywhere between 21 and 40 days to be considered a regular cycle.
The menstrual cycle is separated into two phases. The follicular phase and the luteal phase.
Phase one is the follicular phase, the time between the first day of the period and ovulation. Hormone signals are sent back and forth between the brain and the ovaries. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the egg follicles to start developing and maturing.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Oestrogen levels rise as the egg prepares to be released, ending with ovulation when the egg is released. As oestrogen levels reach their peak the production of FSH stops which stimulates the release of luteinising hormone (LH), the hormone responsible for rupturing the follicle and releasing the egg.
The second part of the cycle is the luteal phase, the time between ovulation and the start of the next period. This phase prepares the uterus and body to accept a fertilized egg, or to start the next cycle if pregnancy doesn’t occur. The sac which the egg has burst from (corpus luteum) produces progesterone (the pro gestation hormone) which continues to be produced until the embryo is around 10 – 12 weeks. From this stage onwards progesterone is produced by the placenta. Progesterone is essential in early pregnancy as it helps to thicken the uterine lining, improves blood flow and oxygen supply, allowing the uterus to grow without having contractions.
During the pre-conceptual care phase of reproductive reflexology the aim is to correct any hormonal imbalances, improve any physical conditions, manage stress levels and correct any cycle irregularities.
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See you soon,
Sally
