Hormones: how they influence the menstrual cycle
The female body is controlled and influenced by various hormones.
Here is a brief overview of the main hormones that affect our menstrual cycle.
Estrogen
Estrogen is the hormone that dominates the first phase of the cycle and, among other things, enables an egg to be fertilized. Just before ovulation, the hormone concentration is at its highest and ensures that your basal body temperature (BBT) is low.
Progesterone
In the second phase of the cycle, progesterone enables, among other things, the build-up of the uterine lining and ensures a significant increase in basal body temperature (BBT). This is important for the egg to implant in the uterus. Daysy detects this increase in basal body temperature and can thereby calculate the green, infertile days after ovulation. This is done with an accuracy of over 99%.
Testosterone
Even the male hormone testosterone affects our menstrual cycle and increases our libido. Its highest concentration is reached at the time of ovulation. Testosterone also stimulates the production of red blood cells.
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
In the first phase of the cycle (called the follicular phase), this hormone stimulates the maturation of the follicles. Immediately after ovulation, the hormone concentration quickly drops again.
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
Together with FSH, LH stimulates the ovary in the first phase of the cycle. Again, the hormone reaches its highest concentration at the time of ovulation and then drops again.
Cortisol
Cortisol and adrenaline are stress hormones and are secreted by the adrenal glands. On the one hand, both hormones cause the release of energy reserves; on the other hand, they prepare our body for an imminent fight or flight situation.
Daysy is an intelligent fertility tracker that lets you get to know your very own menstrual cycle.