Knowing the stages of the menstrual cycle can help put you in control of your body and empower you to know when to speak with a doctor. We’ll tell you all about the menstrual, follicular ...

The monthly menstrual cycle consists of several stages that the female body goes through to prepare for the possibility of pregnancy. Learn about each stage of the menstrual cycle here.

This will usually be around 28 days, but there’s a lot of room for variation here. A menstrual cycle that lasts anywhere between 21 and 35 days is normal, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Menstrual cycle phases The menstrual cycle is divided into two phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Within each phase, different things happen concurrently in the uterus and ovaries.

Or, the uterine lining doesn’t grow in response to progesterone like it should. LPD can lead to infertility and miscarriage. Certain lifestyle factors might also be behind a short luteal phase.