Day 22 of the menstrual cycle
In short: what happens on day 22?
Day 22 of the menstrual cycle is the middle of the luteal phase. Progesterone stays high and the lining of the uterus is ready to support a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy has occurred, implantation is completed around now and the embryo starts producing hCG, which keeps the corpus luteum working.
Day 22 of the menstrual cycle – animated explainer
Day 22: 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
Luteal phase
Chance of pregnancy
Very low
Uterine lining
14 mm
Corpus luteum
22 mm
FSH
19
LH
19
Oestrogen
60
Basal body temperature
36.74°C
What is happening in your body today?
The uterine lining is about 14 mm. If there is no pregnancy, the corpus luteum will start to shrink within a few days.
Hormones
Progesterone is high; oestrogen is moderate.
How you might feel
You may have bloating, spots, increased appetite and emotional sensitivity.
Chance of pregnancy
The chance of pregnancy is very low.
Tips for today
- Complex carbohydrates may help balance your mood
- Cut down on salty and processed foods
- Use gentle products in your skincare routine
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you have bleeding outside your period or severe abdominal pain.
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
Why do you get spots before your period?
Hormonal changes in the luteal phase can stimulate the oil glands in the skin and lead to spots.
When does your body start producing hCG?
hCG production starts after the embryo implants in the uterus, usually 8–10 days after ovulation.
Are cramps on day 22 of your cycle normal?
Mild cramps can occur in the luteal phase. Severe, persistent or one-sided pain should be checked by a doctor.
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