In terms of women’s reproductive health, the menstrual cycle is crucial. For a better knowledge of your body and reproductive health, keeping track of your menstrual cycle is essential. The uterus and ovaries in females, specifically, undergo a regular, natural alteration known as the menstrual cycle that enables conception.
Four distinct phases make up the menstrual cycle:
- The menstrual phase
- Follicular phase
- Ovulatory phase
- Luteal phase
Women can get important knowledge about the health of their reproductive system by following these phases and understanding them.
Women’s health and the menstrual cycle are given a lot of attention in the traditional Indian medical system known as ayurveda. The phases of the menstrual cycle must be understood in order to maintain good health, according to Ayurveda, which holds that a woman’s menstrual cycle is a reflection of her general health.
Understanding the menstrual cycle is essential to reaching this equilibrium, according to Ayurveda, which holds that harmonising the body’s energies is essential to sustaining good health.
As a result, according to Ayurveda, monitoring the menstrual cycle is an essential strategy for preserving reproductive health. So let’s explore the four phases of the menstrual cycle and the importance of tracking them.
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Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Guide to the Basics
The female reproductive system goes through a natural process known as the menstrual cycle. It entails several physiological adjustments that get the body ready for a future pregnancy.
Four Phases Of Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle can be divided into four phases:
1. Menstrual phase
Menstruation is the first phase of the menstrual cycle. When an egg is not fertilised in the previous cycle, menstruation the loss of the uterine lining occurs. Menstruation typically lasts between three and seven days, however this might vary from person to person.
The body exhibits a number of symptoms when menstruating. These might include mood swings, bloating, headaches, cramping, and fatigue. And, some women may bleed heavily while others may bleed lightly.
Menstruation is viewed from an Ayurvedic perspective as a period of cleaning and rejuvenation for the body. The removal of poisons and pollutants from the body is thought of as a natural process. The need of self-care during menstruation, including relaxation, water, and nutritious meals, is emphasised in Ayurveda.
Also advised against this period are vigorous exercise and sexual activities. Menstruation may be considered as a beneficial and healthy component of a person’s general well-being by adhering to these guidelines.
2. Follicular phase
The follicular phase, which begins on the first day of the menstrual cycle and concludes with ovulation, is the first half of the menstrual cycle. Because the body raises oestrogen levels to get ready for ovulation, which encourages the growth of the endometrium, this stage is also known as the proliferative phase.
In a 28-day menstrual cycle, the follicular phase can last anywhere from seven to fourteen days. In this stage, the pituitary gland releases the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce follicles that contain eggs. During ovulation, one of these follicles develops and releases an egg.
Typical symptoms during the follicular phase may include:
- Lighter menstrual flow or no bleeding at all
- Increased energy and mood
- Decreased bloating and cramping
- Increase in cervical mucus
According to Ayurveda, the Kapha dosha, which is in charge of nourishing and developing tissues, controls the follicular phase. For this reason, it’s crucial to consume healthy and invigorating meals during this time. To balance the Kapha dosha, eat warm, cooked meals instead of cold or uncooked ones.
In fact, during this stage, doing light exercise, such as yoga or walking, can help to stimulate circulation and balance hormones. In order to promote the body’s normal hormonal rhythm, it is also advised to steer clear of stressful situations and obtain plenty of rest.
3. Ovulatory phase
The menstrual cycle phase known as ovulation is when the ovary releases a fully developed egg into the fallopian tube in preparation for fertilisation. This phase normally starts on day 14 of a 28-day cycle, however this might vary from person to person.
Physical manifestations of ovulation include changes in cervical mucus, a modest rise in basal body temperature, and minor stomach discomfort on one side of the body. People can use these symptoms to track their ovulation and identify the fertile days of their cycle.
Ovulation is seen in Ayurveda as a normal and significant aspect of a woman’s reproductive cycle. It is said to be a period when fertility is at its highest and the body is in a condition of harmony and balance.
To assist ovulation and advance general reproductive health, ayurvedic doctors may advise certain medications or dietary habits. For instance, eating meals high in good fats and engaging in stress-relieving activities like yoga and meditation may enhance hormone balance and healthy ovulation.
4. Luteal phase
The luteal phase, which follows ovulation, is the last stage of the menstrual cycle. It can endure from 10 to 16 days, though usually just for approximately 14 days. The follicle that broke during ovulation and delivered the egg becomes the corpus luteum during this phase, which releases progesterone to get the uterus ready for a future pregnancy.
The luteal phase is characterised by mood swings, bloating, moderate cramps, and breast tenderness. The hormonal changes that take place during this phase, particularly the rise in progesterone, are to blame for these symptoms.
The pitta phase, which is related to the fire element and contains attributes of transformation and digestion, is said to occur during the luteal phase according to Ayurveda. The body’s digestive fire is at its peak during this period, according to Ayurvedic principles, allowing for the best possible digestion and nutritional absorption.
To promote the body’s natural digestion process, it is advised to consume lighter, simpler-to-digest meals during this time.
In order to counteract the heightened heat and intensity brought on by the pitta dosha during the luteal phase, Ayurveda also advises engaging in relaxing and cooling exercises. This might involve relaxing techniques like moderate yoga, meditation, and cooling pranayama like sheetali and sheetkari.
It is important to note that if pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum will eventually disintegrate, causing a drop in progesterone levels and triggering the start of a new menstrual cycle.
Ayurveda and the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle, in accordance with Ayurveda, is an indicator of a woman’s general health and wellbeing. It serves as a gauge for the harmony of the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. The menstrual cycle is regarded as a natural detoxification procedure that aids in the removal of toxins from the body.
To support the menstrual cycle, Ayurveda places emphasis on keeping a healthy lifestyle and nutrition.
In general, keeping track of the menstrual cycle is crucial for women’s health. Women may learn to recognize their fertile window, keep track of their menstrual symptoms, and make educated decisions about their reproductive health by learning the phases of the menstrual cycle.
Understanding and Managing Menstrual Cycle Disorders
There are several menstrual cycle disorders that women may experience during their reproductive years. It is important to keep a regular check on these menstrual disorders in order to maintain good health.
5 Most Common Menstrual Cycle Disorders
Here are some of the most common menstrual cycle disorders:
1. Irregular menstrual cycles
When the length of the menstrual cycle differs from month to month, irregular menstrual cycles take place. Numerous things, such as stress, weight gain or loss, hormonal imbalances, and specific medical conditions, can contribute to this.
2. Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods. It can be caused by a number of factors, including pregnancy, menopause, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions.
3. Dysmenorrhea
Women who suffer from dysmenorrhea have painful menstrual cycles. Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease are just a few of the causes.
4. Menorrhagia
Women who have menorrhagia go through very heavy menstrual cycles. Hormonal abnormalities, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and certain drugs are just a few of the causes.
5. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
In the days before their periods, women may suffer a range of symptoms known as PMS. Mood swings, bloating, breast soreness, and exhaustion are among symptoms.
Managing Menstrual Cycle Issues Naturally: Ayurvedic Remedies and Benefits
Menstrual cycle issues are frequently seen in Ayurveda as an indication of an unbalanced dosha (the three biological energies that control the body). Depending on the underlying dosha imbalance, different menstrual cycle diseases require different treatments. Here are a few typical Ayurvedic remedies for irregular menstrual cycles:
1. Herbal remedies
Shatavari, ginger, and other ayurvedic medicines can be used to balance the doshas and encourage regular menstrual periods. 1
2. Dietary changes
Your hormones can be adjusted and good menstrual periods can be encouraged by eating a nutritious, balanced diet that is customised to your dosha. 2
3. Yoga and meditation
Yoga and meditation may ease tension and encourage relaxation, which can be beneficial for women who have issues with their menstrual cycles. 3
4. Ayurvedic massages
Abhyanga massages and other ayurvedic treatments can support healthy menstrual periods and dosha balance. 4
5. Lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress can help to promote healthy menstrual cycles. 5
To address menstrual cycle issues, it’s crucial to engage with a healthcare practitioner in addition to these Ayurvedic remedies. Certain menstrual cycle disorders may occasionally require conventional medical treatments.
Natural medicines often have less side effects than conventional medicines, which is one of their key advantages. A lot of natural treatments may also be readily incorporated into regular activities, including drinking herbal tea or doing yoga.
Natural cures, however, might not work for everyone, so it’s vital to speak with a doctor before beginning any new treatment. Menstrual cycle problems may occasionally require treatment using conventional medication.
Bottom Line
Understanding your body and maintaining your reproductive health depend on keeping track of your menstrual cycle. You can anticipate changes and spot any anomalies that could call for medical care if you are familiar with the phases of your menstrual cycle and their common symptoms.
And, being aware of your menstrual cycle can help you prepare for conception, use of contraception, and other reproductive health issues.
Ayurveda offers suggestions for handling menstrual cycle problems healthily. According to Ayurveda, a woman’s menstrual cycle is a mirror of her general health, and it can be disturbed by bodily imbalances. Ayurvedic treatments for menstrual cycle problems may involve dietary adjustments, herbal supplements, and lifestyle changes to reestablish the body’s natural equilibrium.
While natural treatments for menstrual cycle problems can be helpful, it is crucial to get medical help if your symptoms are severe or persistent. A healthcare professional should be consulted before beginning any new treatment since natural therapies may not be appropriate for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the phases of the menstrual cycle according to ayurveda?
Ayurveda identifies four phases of the menstrual cycle: Menstruation, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phase.
How can I track my menstrual cycle according to ayurveda?
Observe the changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and vaginal pH to track your menstrual cycle according to ayurveda.
How can ayurveda help regulate menstrual cycle?
Ayurveda recommends a balanced lifestyle, including a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management, to regulate menstrual cycle and prevent menstrual disorders.
References
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- Choudhary, M., & Talukdar, B. (2012). Yoga and menstrual disorders: A review of the status quo. Journal of clinical and diagnostic research: JCDR, 6(10), 1629.[↩]
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