Every month, we girls dread “this week.” We’ll experience lingering sadness, occasional emotional outbursts, and, of course, intense pain when our period arrives. That’s not our only concern, as we experience ups and downs throughout the month in terms of mood, productivity levels, and more. We tend to view our menstrual cycle through a two-sided lens, but it actually encompasses many important aspects. By strengthening our understanding of how our cycles work, we can apply that understanding to our tasks and achieve results.
When you understand how your cycle works, you can work with it, not against it. You may complain about your period, but you can embrace it and go with the flow to get your work done effectively. To shed some light on this topic, we spoke to OnlyMyHealth expert Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj. Dr. Archana is a gynecologist, obstetrician, and fertility specialist at Nurture IVF Clinic in New Delhi . Understanding the changes in energy, mood, and cognitive function during the menstrual cycle can help women increase their productivity, she says. Women can tap into the unique strengths and skills that each phase of their menstrual cycle brings by aligning it with the work and activities they do.
Read more: Should you worry if your period is light? Gynecologist sheds light
What is your menstrual cycle?
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The female reproductive system undergoes regular changes called the menstrual cycle, which helps prepare the body for ovulation and pregnancy. The most notable part of this cycle is menstruation, or menstruation, which is the bleeding that a woman experiences. Menstruation usually begins around puberty, around age 12, and continues until menopause, which occurs around age 51.
How to make your menstrual cycle more efficient and increase productivity at each stage?
The menstrual cycle has four phases, and here’s what you can do to optimize each phase and manage it effectively.
Menstrual phase (days 1-5)
The perimenopause phase is the beginning of the menstrual cycle, when the lining of the uterus sheds and menstruation begins. During this phase, many women experience decreased libido and increased pain. In addition, Dr. Bajaj offers the following tips to increase productivity during this period.
- Prioritize tasks that require less physical effort and allow for more rest and self-care.
- Focus on activities that encourage creativity, reflection, and planning, such as brainstorming, journaling, or strategic thinking.
Follicular phase (days 6-14)
“As the menstrual flow slows, the body enters the follicular phase, characterized by high estrogen levels, energy, and vitality,” says Dr. Bajaj. “This period is ideal for starting challenging work, taking on new initiatives, and engaging in collaborative activities.”
He encourages readers,
- Use their enhanced cognitive functioning, creativity, and communication skills to generate ideas, participate in team meetings, and implement strategic projects.
- Use your innate enthusiasm and determination to set high goals and lay the foundation for future success.
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Ovulation phase (days 15-18)
“Ovulation occurs in the middle of the menstrual cycle, when an egg is released from the ovary and estrogen levels rise,” says Dr. Bajaj. “This phase is associated with energy, confidence, and aggression, so it’s ideal for high-stakes meetings, introductions, and negotiations.”
Here are some tips he offers:
- Use your social skills, charm, and emotional intelligence to develop relationships, influence choices, and defend yourself and your views.
- Use your natural charm and charm to leave a lasting impression and achieve your goals with ease.
She adds that you may feel like a mother at this stage of your cycle. You may appreciate using this energy to babysit friends, volunteer with a children’s or animal group, or organize work-related projects that require guidance. This is also a time when you may experience a wave of “baby fever,” so be aware that you may be more eager to expand your family, simply because of your hormones!
Luteal phase (days 19-28)
The luteal phase is the final phase of the menstrual cycle, when progesterone levels rise and mood and energy levels change. To illustrate this, Dr. Bajaj explains, “During this phase, some women experience symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), while others feel calm and focused.”
Dr. Bajaj recommends tips for making the most of this chaotic time.
- During this time, adjust your work activities to suit your needs and interests.
- Prioritize tasks that require attention to detail, analytical thinking, and follow-through, such as data analysis, project management, and administrative work.
- Self-care habits are also important during this time!
Get it
Imagine that each phase of your cycle is harnessing the unique energy it brings to ignite your passions, align with your goals, and create a natural and powerful flow. By harnessing the power each phase brings, you can transform the way you present yourself, not only at work, but for yourself. The result is not just increased productivity; it is a deeper, more intuitive connection to your own rhythm that makes each achievement more meaningful. Using this method isn’t just about success; it’s about honoring yourself fully, every step of the way!
