Living in sync with your menstrual cycle can have numerous benefits for your sexual, physical, emotional, and mental health. Understanding the hormonal shifts that occur throughout your cycle can help you make more informed decisions about your diet, exercise routine, and self-care practices. It can also help you identify patterns in your libido, energy levels, mood, and productivity, allowing you to better plan your schedule and maximise your potential. By embracing the natural ebb and flow of your cycle, you can cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness, empowerment, and connection to your body.

Here is a breakdown of your menstrual cycle and tips on how to approach sex and masturbation with respect to each phase. 

Menstruation

During the menstruation phase, estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest. This is a time when the body may feel more fatigued, making rest and self-care especially important. While some may experience a lower libido due to hormonal shifts, others report an increase in sexual desire during this phase, potentially due to heightened blood flow to the pelvic region or the absence of pregnancy concerns. Since natural lubrication tends to be lower, using an external lubricant can enhance comfort and pleasure, as this phase is often considered a ‘dry phase.’

Follicular 

During the follicular phase, hormone levels are still relatively low but gradually increasing. The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is released, stimulating the maturation of eggs in the ovaries. As estrogen begins to rise, many people notice an increase in energy, mood, and sexual desire, making this a great time to explore arousal and deepen physical connection. Engaging in foreplay can enhance natural lubrication and arousal, which helps the cervix shift higher in the vaginal canal, creating more space for penetration if desired. Whether through sensual touch, new experiences, or playful intimacy, this phase is an opportunity to embrace creativity and pleasure.

Ovulation 

The ovulation phase is when your body is primed for sex—your hormones are working to increase arousal, making this the time you’re likely to feel your horniest. After the follicular phase, a surge in luteinising hormone (LH) triggers the release of an egg, while a spike in testosterone fuels sexual desire. Your body is ready to reproduce, even if that’s not your goal—so if pregnancy isn’t on your agenda, be sure to use protection! Around this time, your cervical fluid increases, acting as a natural lubricant and enhancing sensitivity. Think hot, steamy, and deeply connected sex—this is the perfect time to explore new fantasies, experiment with different positions, or introduce new toys into the mix. Whether solo or with a partner, embrace the heightened pleasure and let yourself play. We recommend trying our Egg for extra internal stimulation. 

Luteal  

Your luteal phase can be broken down into halves. Oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone reach their peak and begin to fall reaching their lowest point right before menstruation. During the first half of this phase, you may have a high libido but you may also need to increase the stimulation to reach climax- we recommend utilising our more intense toys including the Duo. Add a little more time and effort into your sexual routine - light our beautifully musky, sandalwood scented massage candle, enjoy a romantic dinner prior, and massage yours and/or your partner's body. In the second half of the phase, your libido will begin to decrease as your hormones drop. Different emotions and feelings may arise, listen to them, don't bury them, and think and talk about them!