Every once in a while, there are several sequential days where you might think you’re the most attractive person to ever exist.
Your skin appears more supple, face plumper, lips rosier – irrespective of how critical you were about your body image merely three days ago, at the moment, you feel like an absolute perfect score.
It’s ovulation, darling.
During ovulation, we undergo physical transformations that boost our feeling of attractiveness.
Furthermore, these changes aim to enhance our physical charm, because beauty, after all, lies in the eyes of the observer.
Considering it’s the optimal period to attract potential partners, from a biological standpoint this makes complete sense.
So, if you notice that your body image varies monthly, don’t fret, you’re not being irrational.
Some days you may feel like a world-class model, and other days you might feel less attractive – it’s all connected to the menstrual cycle (isn’t it always?).
Here’s what to anticipate from each stage of your cycle.
The impact of the follicular phase on body image
During our follicular phase just before ovulation, our body’s production of oestrogen gradually increases, hitting a high point during ovulation itself.
‘The surge in oestrogen levels can lead to heightened energy, mood enhancement, and an overall positive outlook,’ states Dr Ashfaq Khan, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Harley Street Gynaecology.
‘The energy and positivity during this phase can positively affect body image, making individuals feel more confident and content with how they look.’
Some people also observe an augmentation in breast volume and sensitivity during this time, coupled with an increased libido, all of which can boost body image.
The influence of ovulation on body image
Generally, we ovulate approximately a fortnight before our period starts and it lasts for three days.
‘During ovulation, there is a spike in the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH),’ Dr Ashfaq explains.
He adds to Metro.co.uk that there’s also a surge in oestrogen levels.
‘Among oestrogen’s effects are increased blood circulation to the skin, resulting in a healthier and more radiant complexion,’ Dr Ashfaq elucidates.
‘In addition to this, oestrogen can affect facial symmetry and specific physical traits that are linked with attractiveness, like facial proportions and waist-to-hip ratio.’
Dr Danielle Nader, a clinical research scientist at the period care app Joii, states that women’s body odour also becomes ‘more appealing’ during ovulation. However, she adds that these alterations are usually quite subtle and may be perceptible only to the individual concerned (regrettably).
The impact of the luteal phase on body image
Following ovulation is the luteal phase, marked by declining levels of oestrogen and progesterone. It is during this phase that we begin to experience premenstrual symptoms like cramps, mood swings, bloating, and acne – which marks our monthly low point.
During this phase, explains Dr Ashfaq, we’re more prone to water retention, weight changes, emotional susceptibility, and craving sweets and carbohydrates. All these factors can adversely affect our body image perceptions.
The influence of menstruation on body image
Eventually, during menstruation, we may experience both physical and mental discomfort.
‘Menstruation can induce physical distress including bloating, tenderness in the breasts, cramps, and weariness,’ indicates Dr Ashfaq.
‘These symptoms could lead to brief changes in the body shape or sensation, which can impact how an individual views their body during this period.’
Changes in mood, weight fluctuations, and water retention can also ‘result in shifts in body image perceptions and a feeling of dissatisfaction.’
It’s crucial to note that everyone’s experience varies, and different people might have different body image sentiments at various stages of their cycle.
Still, if you notice an unusually negative self-perception, try to figure out where you stand in your cycle, and reassure yourself these feelings are temporary.
Alternatively, you could count down the days till your next ovulation phase.
