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Menstrual cycle phases

Also called follicular phase, luteal phase

The menstrual cycle phases are the stages of a monthly cycle: the follicular phase (from the first day of bleeding to ovulation) and the luteal phase (from ovulation to the next period).

Oestrogen and progesterone levels change across these phases. Researchers often split the cycle further into early follicular, late follicular, ovulation, early luteal, mid-luteal and late luteal. Cycle length and symptoms differ from person to person, and hormonal contraception changes the hormone pattern.

General information, not medical advice.