Period Tracker

Understanding the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is a series of hormonal changes in the female body each month. It usually begins on the first day of the period and lasts 24 to 38 days (Merck Manuals, n.d.), although this can vary from person to person. The cycle is divided into four phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation phase, and luteal phase. These changes prepare the body for pregnancy by thickening the uterus lining and releasing an egg from the ovaries.

Here's an overview of each phase:

• Menstrual phase: This is the first phase of the cycle and usually lasts 3-7 days. During this phase, the body sheds the uterus lining along with blood and tissue, resulting in a period.
• Follicular phase: The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period and ends with ovulation. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce an egg.
• Ovulation phase: The ovary releases a mature egg into the fallopian tube, making it available for fertilization. This phase usually occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle but can vary from person to person. Ovulation is considered the most fertile phase of the menstrual cycle, and tracking this for pregnancy planning is essential.
• Luteal phase: The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of your next period. The egg travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus during this stage. If fertilization occurs, the egg will implant itself in the uterus lining, and pregnancy begins. If fertilization does not occur, the uterus lining breaks down, and a new cycle begins.

Regular and irregular menstrual cycles

As mentioned, the cycle lasts from 24 to 38 days, with day one being the first day of the period. However, not all cycles are typical, and it's normal to have some variations in length. According to Merck Manuals (n.d.), only a minority of women, approximately 10 to 15%, experience cycles that precisely last for 28 days. Additionally, irregular cycles are observed in at least 20% of women.

Regular cycles have a consistent length, whereas irregular ones occur fewer than 21 days or more than 34 days (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.) Stress, diet, and exercise can affect cycle length (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.). Tracking these changes in the menstrual cycle can help individuals better understand their body's patterns and make necessary adjustments for optimal health.

 Keeping track of the menstrual cycle can help individuals identify any irregularities and bring them up with a healthcare professional. Understanding the body's natural rhythm can also help predict ovulation and fertility. For those trying to conceive, tracking ovulation can increase the chances of getting pregnant.

How to use Carepatron's PDF Period Tracker

Carepatron's free printable Period Tracker makes it easy for your patients to stay on top of their menstrual cycles and overall health. Here's how to use the template.

Step 1: Download the template

The Carepatron's printable period tracker can be downloaded for free from our website. You can also get a copy using this page's link or our resources library.

Step 2: Give your patient a copy

You can print the period planner or give a digital copy to your patient. Explain how to use it and the benefits of tracking their menstrual cycle.

Step 3: Patient completes the tracker

The patient can fill in the first day of their period on the tracker and continue to track it for the next month. They can also add notes about symptoms, mood swings, and any irregularities.

Step 4: Patient shares the tracker with you

Encourage your patient to share their completed with you during their next appointment. This will let you better understand their menstrual cycle and health.

Step 5: Use the tracker to manage symptoms

You can use the free printable period tracker to help your patient better manage their symptoms. By tracking their menstrual cycle, you can identify patterns and suggest strategies for managing symptoms like mood swings, cramps, and bloating in future cycles.

When would you use this form?

You can use this menstrual cycle tracker at the beginning of your patient's menstrual cycle to help them prepare for their upcoming period. By tracking their cycle, they can be better prepared for any symptoms or changes in their body. Here are other scenarios when this tracker can be helpful:

• When trying to conceive: The period can also be an ovulation and fertility tracker. By tracking their cycle, your patient can better understand their fertile window and increase their chances of becoming pregnant.
• For menstrual irregularities: If your patient is experiencing irregular periods, this planner can help identify any patterns or potential underlying issues that may need medical attention.
• To track the effectiveness of birth control: If your patient is using birth control, they can use this menstrual cycle tracker to monitor their menstrual cycle and ensure that the method is working effectively.
• For overall menstrual health: Using the free printable tracker, your patient can have an overview of their menstrual cycle and track any changes or abnormalities in their flow, which can help monitor their reproductive health.

References

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Abnormal menstruation (periods).https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14633-abnormal-menstruation-periods

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Nutrition and exercise throughout your menstrual cycle. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nutrition-and-exercise-throughout-your-menstrual-cycle

Merck Manuals. (n.d.). Menstrual cycle. In The Merck Manual Home Edition. https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/women-s-health-issues/biology-of-the-female-reproductive-system/menstrual-cycle