Day 2 of the menstrual cycle
In short: what happens on day 2?
Day 2 of the menstrual cycle is, for many people, the day of heaviest bleeding. The lining of the uterus continues to shed while oestrogen and progesterone stay low. Under the influence of FSH, new follicles begin to grow in the ovaries as the body prepares for the next ovulation.
Day 2 of the menstrual cycle – animated explainer
Day 2: cycle dial, uterus and ovaries, hormone levels (illustrative animation).
What the animation shows
- FSH
- Follicle-stimulating hormone: starts the growth of follicles in the ovary
- LH
- Luteinising hormone: its sudden surge triggers ovulation
- E2
- Oestrogen (oestradiol): thickens the lining of the uterus
- P4
- Progesterone: prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy
- BBT
- Thermometer and dots below: basal body temperature
- RING
- Coloured ring: the 28-day cycle and its phases; the green arc marks the fertile days
- MM
- The measurement in the uterus shows lining thickness; in the ovary it shows follicle or corpus luteum size
Phase
Menstrual phase (period)
Chance of pregnancy
Very low
Uterine lining
3.5 mm
Follicle
5 mm
FSH
49
LH
18
Oestrogen
15
Basal body temperature
36.34°C
What is happening in your body today?
Most of the uterine lining is shed during these days. In the ovary, around 10–20 small follicles respond to FSH and start to grow.
Hormones
FSH keeps rising; oestrogen and progesterone are low.
How you might feel
Cramps, tiredness and low energy can be noticeable. With heavy bleeding, iron loss may make you feel dizzy.
Chance of pregnancy
The chance of pregnancy is very low.
Tips for today
- Eat iron-rich foods (red meat, pulses, leafy green vegetables)
- Change pads or tampons regularly
- If you need painkillers, do not exceed the dose recommended by your doctor
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if bleeding lasts longer than 7 days, if you pass large clots, or if you have palpitations or marked weakness (signs of anaemia).
Menstrual cycle day by day: table
| Day | What happens | Fertile window |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | First Day of Your Period | — |
| Day 2 | Heaviest Bleeding Day | — |
| Day 3 | FSH Rises, Follicles Grow | — |
| Day 4 | Bleeding Eases, Oestrogen Rises | — |
| Day 5 | Last Day of Your Period | — |
| Day 6 | Follicular Phase Begins | — |
| Day 7 | Dominant Follicle Is Selected | — |
| Day 8 | Oestrogen Rises, Fertile Window Nears | Low |
| Day 9 | Fertile Window Begins | Moderate |
| Day 10 | Fertile Window, Higher Pregnancy Odds | Moderate |
| Day 11 | 3 Days Before Ovulation | High |
| Day 12 | Oestrogen Nears Its Peak | High |
| Day 13 | LH Surge: Ovulation Is Near | Highest |
| Day 14 | Ovulation Day | Highest |
| Day 15 | Luteal Phase Begins | Moderate |
| Day 16 | Progesterone Rises | Low |
| Day 17 | Luteal Phase and Increased Appetite | — |
| Day 18 | Breast Tenderness May Start | — |
| Day 19 | Implantation Window Opens | — |
| Day 20 | Implantation Bleeding Possible | — |
| Day 21 | Progesterone Peak (Day 21 Test) | — |
| Day 22 | Mid-Luteal Phase | — |
| Day 23 | PMS Symptoms May Start | — |
| Day 24 | Hormones Start to Fall | — |
| Day 25 | Late Luteal Phase and PMS | — |
| Day 26 | Progesterone Drop and Cramps | — |
| Day 27 | 1 Day Before Your Period | — |
| Day 28 | Last Day of Your Cycle | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which day of your period is the heaviest?
For most people bleeding is heaviest on days 1 and 2, then gradually becomes lighter.
How much blood do you lose during a period?
On average, 30–40 ml of blood is lost during a period. Losing more than 80 ml is considered heavy menstrual bleeding.
Is it OK to exercise on your period?
Yes. Light to moderate exercise can help with cramps and mood. Listen to your body and adjust the pace.
Gynaecology check-ups and follow-up at SoftCare Clinic
Book an appointment with our specialist doctors for irregular periods, painful periods or pregnancy planning.
The information on this page is general guidance based on a typical 28-day cycle and does not replace a medical examination. It should not be used as a method of contraception.
Medical content editor: Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus