What Happens to Your Body Before, During, and After Your Period? A Complete Menstrual Cycle Guide
🧠Why Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle Matters
Your menstrual cycle is more than just a monthly inconvenience — it’s a key indicator of your hormonal, reproductive, and overall health. By learning what happens before, during, and after your period, you can take better care of yourself, reduce discomfort, and choose the right menstrual care products for each phase.
👉 Looking for sustainable menstrual care? Try reusable menstrual cups and leak-proof period underwear from NYX Collection.
🩸 BEFORE Your Period – PMS & Hormonal Shifts
Phase: Luteal Phase (Day 15–28)
Hormone in control: Progesterone
During this phase, your body preps for a possible pregnancy. When that doesn’t happen, progesterone levels drop, triggering premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Common PMS Symptoms:
-
Mood swings & irritability
-
Bloating, breast tenderness
-
Headaches, fatigue
-
Cravings, acne flare-ups
📖 Fact: Up to 90% of menstruating individuals experience PMS symptoms. (NIH Source)
🌿 Eco Tip: This is a good time to prepare your body and bag — switch to soft, breathable period panties that ease bloating and reduce irritation.
🩸 DURING Your Period – Menstrual Bleeding
Phase: Menstruation (Day 1–7)
Hormone: Estrogen & Progesterone low
Your uterus sheds its lining, leading to bleeding that typically lasts 3–7 days. Average blood loss is 30–80 mL.
Physical & Emotional Changes:
-
Menstrual cramps (due to prostaglandins)
-
Tiredness & lower energy
-
Increased sensitivity, back pain
-
Digestive changes (loose stool or constipation)
🛡 Product Tip: Choose a product that works for your flow:
-
For light-medium flow: Leak-proof period underwear
-
For heavier days: Medical-grade silicone menstrual cups that offer up to 12 hours of protection
🩸 AFTER Your Period – Energy Rebound
Phase: Follicular Phase (Day 7–14)
Hormone: Estrogen rising
As bleeding ends, estrogen levels rise, bringing improved mood, clearer skin, and higher energy.
Positive Post-Period Signs:
-
Renewed motivation and alertness
-
Increased libido and confidence
-
Better digestion, stable mood
💪 Optimize this time: Schedule workouts, projects, or social activities during this phase. You’ll be naturally more productive and emotionally balanced.
💡 What to Track During Your Cycle
-
Mood changes
-
Cramps & pain level
-
Bleeding days & flow amount
-
Product comfort (pads, tampons, cups, underwear)
Tracking these patterns helps you find the best solution tailored to your cycle.
🌱 Why Switch to Eco-Friendly Period Products?
Traditional pads & tampons often contain plastic, bleach, and fragrances — these take up to 500 years to decompose!
Reusable Options:
| Product | Usage Time | Material | Pros | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Menstrual Cup | 8–12 hrs, lasts 5–10 years | Medical-grade silicone | Cost-effective, zero-leak seal | ~$29–$39 |
| Period Underwear | 8–12 hrs, lasts 2+ years | Cotton blend + leak-proof layers | Comfortable, reusable, odor-resistant | ~$20–$35 |
📖 Study: Menstrual cups are as effective as tampons but produce 99% less waste over 10 years (The Lancet, 2019).
📚 Additional Resources
✅ Final Thoughts: Listen to Your Cycle
Your body sends powerful signals throughout your menstrual cycle. Whether it’s cramps during menstruation, mood swings before your period, or a surge of energy afterward — each phase tells a story.
By understanding your body and using sustainable, comfortable menstrual care products, you’re not only supporting your health — you’re also protecting the planet.
✨ Explore eco-friendly, reusable period care options at NYX Collection. Period care, redefined.