Hormonal health
Your hormones, explained with care
Hormones shape your cycle, your fertility and how you feel. Understanding them is the first step towards the right questions and the right care.
The menstrual cycle
Four phases, one conversation between brain and ovaries
- 1
Menstruation
Days 1–5 (approx.)
The womb lining sheds. Hormone levels are low, and FSH begins to rise.
- 2
Follicular phase
From day 1 to ovulation
FSH stimulates follicles; oestradiol rises and the lining thickens. Its length varies most between people.
- 3
Ovulation
Mid-cycle (varies)
An LH surge triggers the release of an egg. The fertile window is the few days before and including ovulation.
- 4
Luteal phase
Ovulation to next period
Progesterone from the corpus luteum prepares the lining. This phase is usually 11–17 days.
Timings are typical examples; every cycle is different.
Hormonal health library
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Fertility Companion
Questions about your hormones?
Book a hormonal health review with Dr Bhushan to understand your results in context.