Why the Follicular Phase Is the Most Peaceful Part of Your Menstrual Cycle

Get the Full StorySome parts of the menstrual cycle are simply better than others. At some points, you're more likely to experience unpleasant symptoms like bloating, painful cramps, mood swings looking at you, luteal phase . But thankfully, there's also a brief time of respite to prove it's not all bad. This is where the follicular phase comes into play - a crucial, but criminally underrated part of the menstrual cycle we should seriously talk about more often.

You can think of the follicular phase as the calm before the storm. Not only is it less likely to bring about pain and discomfort, but it can also boost your mood, libido, and make you feel more energized. For more information about what we feel is the best phase of the menstrual cycle, we asked an ob-gyn to weigh in.

Experts Featured in This Article:

Renita F. White, MD, is a board-certified ob-gyn, women's health advocate, and advisor on The Honey Pot's Pulse Panel.

What Is the Follicular Phase?

The menstrual cycle has four parts: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is typically the longest phase of your menstrual cycle, taking place in the two weeks before ovulation and ending right when you start ovulating, explains ob-gyn Renita F. White, MD. "During this time, the ovaries recruit a follicle that will release an egg during ovulation," Dr. White says. "Follicle-stimulating hormone FSH and estrogen levels increase during this time to help with the process."

Follicular Phase Symptoms

Throughout the follicular phase, a single "dominant follicle" develops faster than the rest. This follicle a fluid-filled sac in your ovary then releases more estrogen into the body in preparation to house an egg. According to Dr. White, these high estrogen levels can result in the following feel-good side effects:

Increased energy

Improved mood

Better sleep

Sharper concentration

Higher libido

"During the follicular phase, any bothersome premenstrual symptoms you were having will have resolved," Dr. White adds. "This includes cramping, fatigue, or moodiness."

Can You Get Pregnant During the Follicular Phase?

Yes. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, you have an especially good chance of becoming pregnant if you have intercourse in the five days leading up to ovulation and the highest chance on the day you ovulate .

How Long Does the Follicular Phase Last?

The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period and ends the day you ovulate. That said, "You may not recognize that you are ovulating," Dr. White says. "Some signs can include a change in cervical mucus, new bloating, or cramping." Knowing this information can help you understand your body better or make important decisions about family planning and fertility.

Additionally, the exact length of the follicular phase varies from person to person. "Unlike the luteal phase which generally always lasts about two weeks after ovulation, the follicular phase can be shorter or longer for some people," Dr. White says. If you have a longer menstrual cycle i.e. 35 days , this is likely due to a longer follicular phase. Likewise, if you have a shorter cycle i.e. 21 days you may have a shorter follicular phase. Either way, it's nothing to stress about. "The process of increasing FSH and estrogen levels to recruit a follicle still occurs during this stage," Dr. White says. The average follicular phase ranges from 14 to 21 days, per the Cleveland Clinic, depending on how long it takes the dominant follicle to form.

Chandler Plante she her is an assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group.

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