Cycle education

What happens during the luteal phase?

The luteal phase is the part of your menstrual cycle that happens after ovulation and before your next period begins. It’s one phase of a cycle that can look and feel different from person to person.

By RedBird · Published September 21, 2026 · Updated September 21, 2026

Where the luteal phase fits in your cycle

Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and continues until the next period starts. The luteal phase follows ovulation and usually continues until menstruation begins.

Cycle timing can vary, and an app can only estimate ovulation unless it is confirmed another way.

What might you notice during the luteal phase?

Some people notice changes in the days before their period, including shifts in:

  • mood
  • energy
  • sleep
  • appetite or cravings
  • focus and concentration
  • digestion or bloating
  • headaches
  • physical discomfort

Others may notice very little change. Your experience can also be different from one cycle to the next.

Tracking your own patterns

RedBird lets you record symptoms and experiences alongside your cycle so you can look back over time and see whether certain patterns repeat.

Rather than focusing on one difficult day, tracking across several cycles can give you a clearer picture of what is typical for you.

References

Related RedBird guides

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