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11 Things They Didn’t Teach You In Sex-Ed about Women’s Bodies

Unfortunately, sex education is not as robust as one might hope, leaving most people with a minimal understanding of how reproductive systems function. This is especially true when it comes to the female reproductive cycle, aka the menstrual cycle.

While many are familiar with the basics, the average person knows little about how much the cycle impacts physical and emotional well-being. No matter what kind of body parts you have, it’s valuable to understand this complex process. Let’s discuss some menstrual cycle facts even most women don’t know about. 

A Quick Overview of the Cycle

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Before we throw a few no-so-fun facts at you, there are a couple of things to highlight. The menstrual cycle consists of four phases: menstruation (period), ovulation, follicular, and luteal. The luteal phase is usually the longest, and ovulation is the shortest. Some phases can overlap, but the general order is menstruation to follicular to ovulation to luteal.

It’s crucial to understand that every woman and cycle is different. Not everyone will experience these symptoms, and even if you do, they might not be consistent from month to month. With all that said, here are some lesser-known facts about how the cycle impacts women.

1. Cervical Position Changes

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Throughout the menstrual cycle, the cervix undergoes noticeable changes in position and texture. During ovulation, the cervix rises higher, becomes softer, and opens more. This facilitates the passage of sperm. After ovulation, it lowers and becomes firmer. 

These changes can be detected through self-examination and are sometimes used as a natural family planning method. Some may notice these cervical changes during intercourse or when using insertion products like tampons.

2. Mittelschmerz (Ovulation Pain)

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Approximately 20% of women experience “mittelschmerz,” or ovulation pain. This discomfort, ranging from a mild twinge to sharp cramps, occurs when an egg is released from the ovary. That’s right, cramps are not exclusive to menstruation. 

Mittelschmerz can last from a few minutes to 48 hours and typically affects one side of the lower abdomen. Like period cramps, these are usually harmless, but few people know that ovulation can cause cramps just as much as menstruation.

3. Basal Body Temperature Shift

Really? Wonder.
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After ovulation, progesterone causes a slight increase in basal body temperature, typically 0.5°F to 1°F. This temperature shift can be used to track ovulation and is often employed in fertility awareness methods

The elevated temperature persists throughout the luteal phase until the next menstrual period begins. So if you feel particularly flushed or sweaty during certain times of the month, you’re not imagining it. One degree might not sound like much, but it can make a significant impact.

4. Olfactory Sensitivity Fluctuations

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Research suggests that women’s sense of smell becomes more acute during ovulation. Does that tuna sandwich smell funkier than usual? Is the scent of your favorite candle for some reason giving you a headache today? Blame your ovaries! 

This heightened olfactory sensitivity may be an evolutionary adaptation to help identify compatible mates, allowing women to detect subtle differences in male pheromones during this fertile window. Essentially, you can smell if this guy is going to be a good dad or not. Not actually, but that’s the goal.

5. Vocal Changes

What? Think? Confused?
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Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can affect vocal cords. Guys aren’t the only ones who experience voice changes thanks to hormones! Some women may notice slight changes in their voice quality, with it becoming clearer and more attractive during ovulation. 

The subtle shift might be another evolutionary mechanism to signal fertility, but there is little to no research on the matter. However, if you’re planning a karaoke night, consider aligning it with your ovulation phase. 

6. Immune System Variations

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The immune system’s effectiveness fluctuates throughout the menstrual cycle. It’s generally suppressed during ovulation and early pregnancy to prevent the body from rejecting sperm or a fertilized egg. This can make women more susceptible to infections during certain phases of their cycle. 

Frankly, this one is kind of a bummer. We recommend using a little extra hand sanitizer and caution while ovulating. However, the slight decrease in immune function is not dramatic enough that you should worry. 

7. Sleep Pattern Alterations

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One week, we’re sleeping like babies with bellies full of milk. But the next, we’re tossing and turning like a hungry toddler. Why? Hormonal changes can impact sleep quality and patterns. Many women report better sleep during the follicular phase and poorer sleep quality during the luteal phase. 

The sleep symptoms are partly due to progesterone’s effects on body temperature regulation and its slight sedative properties. On the other hand, a rise in basal temperature during the luteal phase may be why your room feels extra hot sometimes.

8. Cognitive Performance Shifts

asking question. What? Think? Wonder?
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Some studies suggest that cognitive abilities may vary slightly across the menstrual cycle. For instance, verbal fluency tends to improve during the luteal phase, while spatial abilities may be enhanced during the follicular phase. However, these effects are generally subtle and vary among individuals. 

The point is that having brain fog one week and feeling clumsy another might all be caused by your reproductive system. Don’t worry—you’re not losing it; your body is just doing its thing.

9. Breast Tissue Density Changes

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Breast tissue density can fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal influences. Women may feel like their breasts feel “harder” sometimes and this is not their imagination. 

It tends to be most dense during the luteal phase and least dense during menstruation. This can affect the accuracy of mammograms, which is why they are often scheduled during the follicular phase

10. Libido Fluctuations

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While individual experiences vary, many women report increased libido around ovulation. This surge in sexual desire aligns with the most fertile period of the cycle, so it makes perfect sense. Conversely, some women may experience decreased libido during the luteal phase or menstruation.

Basically, your body is trying to get you to do the deed when there’s a high chance for fertilization. But when you’re shedding eggs to reset for the next cycle, the body doesn’t want to get you hot and bothered. 

11. Skin Changes

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Hormonal fluctuations can affect the condition of your skin throughout the cycle too. This one hurts us, because no matter how much you wash your face, use your toner, and keep your hands away from your face, you might get hormonal breakouts anyway. 

Many women notice clearer skin during ovulation due to increased estrogen levels. Conversely, the rise in progesterone during the luteal phase may lead to increased oil production and acne breakouts for some. 

Maybe It’s You or Maybe It’s Your Cycle

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The menstrual cycle’s impact on the body extends far beyond menstruation itself. It’s not just about periods and tummy cramps. These lesser-known aspects highlight the intricate connection between all our bodily functions. Understanding these nuances can provide valuable insights into overall health and well-being, so it pays to pay attention.

The next time you’re wondering why you’re so sweaty this week or why you can’t keep your hands off your partner, consider where you are in your cycle.

The One Post-Sex Habit Every Woman Should Know for Better Health!

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Sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being and understanding the practices that can help maintain it is crucial. One such practice is urinating after sexual intercourse. While it may seem like a small step, peeing after sex can have significant health benefits, particularly for women.

READ: The One Post-Sex Habit Every Woman Should Know for Better Health!

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  • Dede Wilson Headshot Circle

    Dédé Wilson is a journalist with over 17 cookbooks to her name and is the co-founder and managing partner of the digital media partnership Shift Works Partners LLC, currently publishing through two online media brands, FODMAP Everyday® and The Queen Zone.

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