Fertility 101

The Menstrual Cycle

1. What are the 4 phases of the menstrual cycle? How long does each one last?
The first part is menstruation (the first day of your period), the follicular phase (Day 7 - 11), ovulation (Day 14 - 21), and then the luteal phase (Day 22 - 28). Please note that every woman is different, and thus will have different cycles. The menstrual cycle lasts anywhere from 28 to 34 days.

2. What days am I fertile? 
Women are most fertile during their ovulatory phase, although not everyone's ovulation days are the same. Some may ovulate on Day 14, some may ovulate on Day 20. You are most likely to get pregnant a couple of days before and after ovulation.

3. Why do I PMS and get cramps during my period?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is normal and contains an array of symptoms including but not limited to fatigue, stomach pain, cramps, headache, mood swings, food cravings, tender breasts, etc. This is due to hormonal changes that fluctuate with your cycle. Some may be more affected than others, but the majority of women do experience PMS at some point in the month, if not in their lives. 

4. Is spotting normal when you're not on your period?
Yes, it can be normal, but it also depends on the type of discharge. You should still consult your doctor if you think there's anything abnormal, foul-smelling, or irregular bleeding. Sometimes spotting a few days before or after your period is normal.