One minute you are living the soft life without any care; the next your uterus says, “It’s time for World War Z.” If there’s anything that humbles even the most put-together woman, it’s her menstrual cycle. Yet, many of us grew up being told it’s part of womanhood, like the enemy we should learn to accept. When it is in fact a built-in automation, we should learn to work with it, not against it.
And because nobody warned us that hormones have character development arcs, let’s break down the menstrual cycle in the simplest way possible.
Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
A woman’s menstrual cycle has four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal. To explain it in simpler terms, think of each phase as
- Menstrual phase: The top layers of your uterus shed, resulting in flow.
- Follicular phase: This is when follicles develop in the ovaries.
- Ovulation: This phase signals that your body is ready to get pregnant.
- Luteal phase: Fertilization happens at this stage. On the other hand, it is a preparation for the next menstrual phase.
Now, let’s figure out how to work with each phase of your cycle.
Menstrual Phase: Your Rest & Reset Era
Every month, the uterus sheds its lining, which is normal. However, because African women have been conditioned to endure, to keep functioning at full speed even when our bodies are asking for mercy.
During this phase, choose rest without guilt. Observe slow, quiet mornings. Delegate when possible. Let your workouts be easy. You can take a walk, do yoga, or stretch. Your body is already working overtime.
Meanwhile, nourish yourself. Eat iron-rich food. Brew ginger or lemongrass tea. Ditch that teddy bear and cuddle your hot water bottle.
Follicular Phase: The Comeback Era
Immediately after your period, your estrogen starts lifting again, and your energy rises like the Nigerian sun at midday. This is when your body starts coming back to normalcy.
During this phase, try new things. Work on those ideas you benched, start research, and take on challenges you’ve been avoiding. This is because your brain is sharper and more relaxed.
You can feel like the main character again. Your workouts can get more energetic and fun. Try dance workouts, cardio, or strength. Try lighter meals like fruits, salads, proteins, smoothies, or grilled fish.
Ovulation: Your Power Era
Welcome to your peak-power era. At this stage, your communication skills become elite. Your confidence is unshakable. And your skin glows like you just returned from a vacation in the Caribbean. Even high-intensity workouts feel easier because your energy levels are supercharged.
To maintain balance, incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, oranges, sweet peppers, okra, ginger, and water-rich fruits.
This is also a great time for romantic dates because your social and emotional energy is overflowing. Even your flirting game will shock you.
Luteal Phase: The Slowdown Era
Then suddenly, after all that energy bursting out of you, the universe whispers, “Calm down.” Your progesterone rises, and everything begins to put you on the edge. This is the PMS phase, when even a harmless “hope you’re good” can sound like an insult. Instead of letting this overwhelm you, understand that it’s your body preparing you to wind down. So, work with this energy instead of fighting it.
Also, your workouts should slow down to long walks and gentle stretching. Your meals should be warm foods that keep your mood stable, like sweet potatoes, whole grains, eggs, chicken, soups, oats, and plantain. Drink water like your life depends on it.
Syncing Your Menstrual Cycle with Daily Life
Trying to figure out your menstrual cycle doesn’t require complicated apps. Your phone calendar can help you track patterns. Once you understand your body rhythm, you can schedule your life in a way that supports you.
For example:
- Plan creative or heavy work for follicular and ovulation weeks.
- Schedule soft routines during your menstrual days.
- Do administrative or finishing work during your luteal phase.
Breaking the Stigma
African culture often treats periods with discrimination and silence. Many of us grew up hearing that menstrual pain is a normal cross to bear, that discussing your menstrual cycle openly is improper.
But the truth is, understanding your menstrual cycle is a way to align with your body instead of working against it. This makes the experience smoother, easier, and more manageable.
Your Cycle Is a Compass
Your body isn’t dramatic. It’s communicating with you. And once you start paying attention, you’ll realize your cycle is basically a guide for balanced living. When you follow it, your cycle presents itself with fewer surprises and far less stress.
So, next month, instead of wrestling your hormones, listen to them. They’ve been trying to help you all along.
