A growing number of women in the UK are discussing their menstrual cycles, particularly the luteal phase, and its impact on mood and emotions. This trend has sparked a conversation about women's health and the importance of understanding their bodies.
According to Dr Karen Tang, a gynaecologist, the luteal phase is a real scientific term that describes the physiological changes that occur in a woman's body between ovulation and menstruation. Progesterone levels rise, and estrogen levels lower, resulting in physical and emotional symptoms such as bloating, moodiness, and breast tenderness.
Experts suggest that a lack of adequate sexual health education contributes to the growing interest in the luteal phase. Women's bodies are understudied, underfunded, and under-researched, leaving many without access to reliable information about their health.
While some influencers have seized on the trend to promote their own agendas, others see it as an opportunity for women to take control of their health and learn more about their bodies. As one expert noted, 'people are saying: I had no idea that other people had these similar patterns.'
The conversation around the luteal phase is complex and multifaceted, with some women using it to explain their mood swings and others seeing it as a way to challenge societal expectations around women's roles and bodies.