Tracking my cycle was truly a game-changer for me as I tried to figure out what was happening with my periods.
I learnt SO much about my body and menstrual cycle (and just how irregular they were--yikes!). I was better equipped to talk to my docs too!
This was in the days before period tracking apps were a thing, so good ole paper and pen did the job.
Why Track Your Cycle?
Tracking your cycle is the first step you can take to tap into your menstrual rhythm and really get to know the nuances of your cycle. It isn't just about noting down the first day of your period; it's about getting to know your body over the span of your whole cycle.
Here's why tracking matters:
Our memories are, let's say, not super accurate sometimes. In fact, our brains can edit and update our memories based on new info, values, and knowledge. What this means is that sometimes we can remember, favour, omit, and ascribe more meaning to certain information over others. In short, we're totally biased! I hope that doesn't come as a surprise. Also: we forget things!
The POOP Method (Yup, Really!)
An easy-to-remember acronym for tracking is POOP:
Period Tracking Basics
When tracking your period, consider:
Ovulation Signs
Ovulation can bring along a variety of signs including cervical mucus changes, lower abdominal pain (mittelschmerz), change in basal body temperature right after ovulation, and even increased libido.
Premenstrual Experience
Some mild changes before your period are natural as hormone levels shift. Tracking can help discern if something is only happening in the luteal phase or if it's a premenstrual exacerbation (PME) of an existing condition. Pay attention to symptoms like breast tenderness, headaches, sleep changes, mood shifts, acne, bloating, and cravings. Record the duration, intensity, frequency, and impact on your daily functioning. For tips on PMS, check this post out. And, for PMDD, check this one out.
How Often Should You Track?
Since the goal is to determine your patterns, you can't simply go on one month's worth of data. Track for at least three cycles (ideally, more!) to get an understanding.
After that, you can become more flexible. Maybe you simply record when you get your period and any significant changes from your baseline. The way I track has changed over the years: I used to record a lot more detail in the past, but now my approach is looser as my cycles are regular and I am more in tune with them!
Finding Your Tracking Style
Thanks to tech/apps, it's super easy to record your cycles. Some apps sell your data, so make sure you're thinking about that when choosing one.
Remember, an app is just technology using algorithms–it doesn't replace the understanding that comes from body literacy and you paying attention to your cycles.
Also, the goal of tracking isn't to hyperfocus on all the things! The idea is to learn about your body, identify anything that you have questions/concerns about, and observe changes over time. You're the expert on your body.
So, track in a way that's easy and fun for you–whether that's an app, calendar, journal, spreadsheet, or doodles!
For more nuanced info like this, make sure to grab your copy of The Period Literacy Handbook, available at most retailers that carry books!
