Your menstrual cycle is more than just your period—it’s a dynamic, intricate process that reflects your overall health and hormonal balance. Understanding how it works is key to optimizing your well-being, fertility, and energy levels. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.

When we think of vital signs, we typically think of heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and respiratory rate. But did you know that your menstrual cycle is just as important? Changes in your menstrual cycle can provide early warnings about hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and even chronic conditions. If your cycle is not working right, there is something else that is off, too.

For decades, the birth control pill has become the default “solution” for almost every hormonal or cycle-related challenge a woman can face. Irregular cycles? Pill. Heavy bleeding? Pill. Acne? Painful periods? PCOS? Endometriosis? Pill, pill, pill. It’s prescribed so frequently and casually that it can often feel like there is just no other option.