This symbol is ⵥ (yaz), a letter of the Tifinagh alphabet and an emblem of the Amazigh people of North Africa, a nod to my own heritage.

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Did you know?

While the menstrual cycle provokes a lot of debilitating symptoms, a meta-analysis of 102 studies found no evidence that women’s cognitive performance changes across their cycle. The authors suggest compensation as the most plausible explanation.

Same performance, harder days.

What can you do about it?

Employers can make work more equitable by learning about menstrual health, training managers, providing period products and offering flexibility when needed.

More information ↗

How does it work? (simplified)

Each cycle prepares the body for a possible pregnancy.

Period ~ 5 days

When pregnancy has not occurred, hormone levels fall and the uterus contracts to shed the blood-rich lining it built for the baby. ⚠️ Possible symptoms: cramps, pelvic and lower-back pain, fatigue, headaches, nausea, diarrhoea.

Follicular phase ~ 10 days

As the period ends, oestrogen rises, an egg matures and the uterine lining begins to rebuild for a possible pregnancy. 🟢 Most women notice more energy and a better mood.

Ovulation ~ 24 h

The ovary releases an egg, which can be fertilised for about 12 to 24 hours. ⚠️ Possible symptoms: one-sided pelvic pain, mild cramps, bloating, breast tenderness.

Luteal phase ~ 12 days

After ovulation, progesterone rises and keeps the uterine lining ready for a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, hormone levels fall and the lining begins to break down again, leading to Day 1 of the next cycle. ⚠️ Possible symptoms: bloating, breast tenderness, acne, cravings, fatigue, exhaustion, insomnia, headaches, brain fog, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, depression.

🔁 This cycle can repeat roughly every month for around 40 years, with possible pauses or changes, for example during pregnancy or while using hormonal contraception.During perimenopause, cycles often become less regular before stopping at menopause, which marks the end of the reproductive years.

Write to me ineskhatiri@gmail.com

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Jean Mallard is my favorite visual artist. I've started collecting his work, with the very reasonable long-term goal of covering my home in it. I think, deep down, I'd just like to live in his world.

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