The Neurology of the Menstrual Cycle: How Your Brain Guides Every Phase

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.

By understanding your brain’s role in your cycle, you can align your lifestyle with hormonal shifts, optimize productivity, and manage symptoms. ***If cycles are irregular or PMS becomes severe, consulting with a healthcare provider can help uncover underlying issues like stress or hormonal imbalance.***

Tracking your cycle puts the power in your hands to feel your best, every day of the month! 🌸

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