Started the Energy supplement this week….i DO feel it! lol feels like everything is clearer and sharper…like brain fog is lifting and body fog lifting too. Weird to describe - and all good!

The menstrual cycle is driven by communication between the brain and ovaries through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. Understanding this brain-body connection empowers women to track their cycles effectively and optimize their health. Phases of the Menstrual Cycle (~28 day cycle) and Brain Influence: Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5) - What’s happening: Uterine lining sheds as hormone levels drop. - Brain’s Role: The hypothalamus releases GnRH to stimulate Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) production by the pituitary gland - Mood/Energy: Low estrogen can cause fatigue, irritability, or brain fog. Follicular Phase (Days 6-14) - What’s happening: FSH promotes follicle growth; estrogen increases. - Brain’s Role: Estrogen improves serotonin levels, memory, and focus. - Mood/Energy: Feel energized, optimistic, and mentally sharp. Ovulation (Around Day 14) - What’s happening: A surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) triggers egg release. - Brain’s Role: Estrogen enhances reward circuits and social behavior. - Mood/Energy: Increased libido, confidence, and sociability. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28) - What’s happening: Progesterone rises to maintain the uterine lining. - Brain’s Role: Progesterone activates GABA receptors (calming effect). - Mood/Energy: Initially calm, but PMS (premenstrual syndrome) may occur as estrogen drops. *** I would suggest making note of any physical symptoms and/or feelings that may come up within this phase *** Hormones and Brain Function Across the Cycle - Estrogen: Boosts serotonin and neuroplasticity (positive mood and cognition). - Progesterone: Activates GABA for relaxation but drops near the period, causing PMS. - Cortisol: Chronic stress can disrupt the HPO axis, affecting cycle regularity. Tools for Tracking Your Cycle - Calendar Apps (i.e. Flo, Apple Health App, Period Calendar) - Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Tracking: 1. Use a basal thermometer 2. Take your temperature every morning before getting out of bed 3. A temperature rise (~0.3-0.5°F) indicates ovulation.

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