What Your Cycle Might Be Telling You

Your menstrual cycle can offer more information than just when your next period is due.

It can give helpful clues about ovulation, hormone patterns, stress, and overall reproductive health. If you are thinking about trying to conceive, getting familiar with your cycle can be a practical place to start.

What can your cycle show you?

Over a few months, tracking can help you notice patterns and better understand what feels normal for your body.

Some cycle signs to notice include:

• Irregular or absent cycles

• Very long or very short cycles (under 26 days or over 35 days)

• Spotting before your period

• Heavy or painful periods

• Acne or hormonal skin changes

• Headaches or migraines around your cycle

• No clear ovulation signs

• No libido

These signs do not automatically mean something is wrong, but they can provide useful information about what your body may need.

How preconception care can help

A preconception appointment can help you look at your cycle in the context of your whole health, including nutrition, stress, sleep, hormone symptoms, nutrient status and possible testing or referrals where needed. Your cycle is not something you simply have to put up with. It can be a valuable source of information when preparing for pregnancy. It is often key in recognising the best time for intercourse to optimise chances of conception.