If someone sent you this, they'd like your support. Every body is different, and plenty of people feel very little change, so the best guide is always the person you're supporting. Ask, listen and follow their lead.
Cramps are common. Some people get headaches or bloating, or feel more tired. Some just want quieter days.
The stretch after a period. Some people notice their energy or mood lift. Plenty notice no change at all.
A short window, and only an estimate. Some feel more confident or social, some feel a one-sided twinge, and plenty feel nothing different.
The week or so before a period can be the hardest. Some people feel bloated, tired, more irritable, teary or anxious. It usually eases once the period starts.
Hormones can make feelings louder, but the feelings are still real and usually about something real. Listen first, let them know you get it, and offer comfort before trying to fix anything. Saying "it's just your hormones" tends to make things worse.
Pick a calm moment, not the middle of an argument. Try: "I want you to feel supported on the harder weeks. What helps most when your energy is low?" Then follow their lead.
Heating pad, tea, their favourite snack, a quiet night in, and taking care of dinner and chores without being asked.
Only if they invite you to. Their cycle is their information, so let them decide what to share.
If pain, tiredness or mood regularly gets in the way of their life, gently suggest seeing a doctor, and offer to go with them. If they ever talk about feeling hopeless or hurting themselves, call or text 9-8-8 together. You can also call or text 9-8-8 yourself for advice when you're worried about someone.
If you ever think someone's life is at immediate risk, call 911.
Read the full phase guidePhase days are an example 28-day cycle, and everyone's is different. General wellness information from a medical aesthetician, not medical advice. This page never shows anyone's dates, logs or photos, only what the sender chose to include.