As Oxford University students, we often feel a pressure to “lock in” and constantly achieve – it is our reputation, after all. Off days are only human, but we cannot have many of them, or afford to notably stray from schedule. However, what if for one week at a time, you do not feel your most productive? While seemingly minor, many students might not have considered the effects that their menstrual cycle has on productivity. “Study guilt’ is something that most Oxford students will relate to, but this is only exacerbated by the working day being tailored to the male biological clock, where hormones fluctuate on a day-to-day basis. This is not necessarily a disadvantage, though. This article will provide a number of tips for recognising each stage of the cycle and navigating its impacts.
The typical menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, but can normally range from 21 to 35. It comprises four stages: the follicular, ovulation, luteal, and menstrual.
The follicular stage occurs just after a period. This is generally thought to be a time of increased energy, confidence, and motivation, since levels of estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) rise. This leads to ovulation, lasting roughly a day. After this, LH levels decline, and progesterone increases, leading to the luteal phase. This is often described as premenstrual syndrome – PMS – and it can be associated with changes in mood and energy. Finally, the menstrual phase occurs, where estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest.
Generally, women tend to feel their most energetic, social, and productive in the follicular and ovulation phases. During this time, the brain might respond better to sociable study activities, such as group discussions. While the Oxford workload is not really something that can be negotiated, it might prove beneficial to schedule more intense tasks and distribute higher workloads around these stages, leaving more time to relax (if only slightly) later in the cycle. This might also be the time to consolidate bigger, more challenging ideas. If exams are on the horizon, it might be tactical to build a good study routine at this stage, when motivation and confidence are generally higher.
By contrast, the luteal and menstrual stages can often be associated with lethargy and mood swings. If possible, this would be the time to lighten the workload. Of course, this is difficult at Oxford. However tasks with lengthier deadlines, such as extended essays, could be distributed to make certain weeks slightly less intense than others. Turning inward and prioritising your needs can be a helpful way to support yourself during this period; individual study time, using methods such as flashcards and self-tests, can be a much more effective use of your time, while helping to preserve waning energy. Comforts such as study snacks, or a more comfortable study setup, at first seem unproductive and distracting, however for those who experience discomfort when menstruating, allowing yourself small pleasures might be just what you need in more sluggish moments – within moderation, of course.
Of course, menstruation is highly individual – some might find that their cycle is incredibly disruptive, while others might struggle significantly less. This makes self-knowledge all the more vital. It is important for any Oxford student to give themselves grace for varying levels of attainment – especially those who experience monthly fluctuations. Understanding this is vital in overcoming those especially tiring weeks, and maximising the more productive ones. The menstrual cycle is not a disadvantage – understanding and accommodating it can bring huge advantages.
