You may have heard how the topic of cycle management has grown in importance when it comes to menstrual health. In short, it’s the idea of holistically catering to every phase of a menstrual cycle to support overall wellness. Many influencers and period product companies have referred to these phases as seasons. And like seasons, they represent how monthly changes may influence mood, skin, energy, sleep, our immune system, and fertility. As a result, the industry is responding with an innovative range of natural health products for the whole cycle… not just for periods.
So, what are these phases and what kind of products can you stock for your customers at each point?
Menstrual Phase (Winter)
The first stage is the menstrual phase, which can last between two and seven days. An unfertilised egg results in the uterine lining being shed. Oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are at their lowest which means people may be plagued by mood swings, fatigue, stomach cramps and brain fog. This is also known as the ‘winter’ phase, where people want to stay in more, rest and recover.
Products to recommend include:
- Natural tampons, pads, panty liners and reusable pants, pads, menstrual cups
- Bath soaks to relax muscles and calm the mind
- CBD balms, oils or infused CBD food and drinks for pain relief and relaxation
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich masks
- Supplements to target cravings, mood balancing, gut support
- Dark chocolate to help ease cramps as it has a high magnesium content
Follicular Phase (Spring)
The follicular phase starts on day one of the cycle and finishes around day 13. During this time, the body is preparing an egg for potential fertilisation. The body produces oestrogen to prep the uterine lining, and testosterone builds up sex drive. People tend to feel more like themselves, wanting to socialise and exercise more. This is also known as the Spring phase.
Products to recommend include:
- Natural scrubs to remove excess skin cells
- Body and facial oils to enhance your natural glow
- Essential oils such as lavender to reduce stress
- Protein or collagen powders to stay properly fuelled during the extra activity
Ovulatory Phase (Summer)
The egg is released from the ovaries into the uterus and oestrogen rises. This is usually between days 13 and 16 of the cycle (there is only a 24-hour period in which the egg can be fertilized). At this point energy, mood and sex drive are at their peak. This is known as the happier phase of Summer!
Products to recommend include:
- Dry brush to help lymph node drainage, balancing the sudden oestrogen rise
- Purifying face mask to maintain clear skin
- Light cleansers to replenish skin and wash away impurities
- Natural lubricant as sex drive increases
Body oils to nourish skin
Luteal Phase (Autumn)
The luteal phase is when the body is preparing for pregnancy, whether or not the egg has been fertilized. PMS symptoms begin as hormones drop and spike from around day 15 to 28. This can cause mood swings, skin breakouts, backache, and food cravings, so self-care practices are necessary during this phase. This is also known as Autumn as the body prepares for winter.
Products to recommend include:
- Organic nourishing moisturizer to hydrate dull skin
- Soothing masks to rehydrate
- Supplements for regulating mood and food cravings
- Essential oils such as clary sage, lavender, chamomile providing relief from stress and supports menstruation
- Dark chocolate on its own or with CBD to relieve stress
Marketing various cycle management products in store is a wonderful way to support your customers and offer more than just period products. To make the most of this, businesses could offer discounted cycle related products with period products or bundle cycle care products in a novel way to upsell more than just one product at a time.
In just two days you can discover all these products and more at Natural and Organic Products Europe – all in one place! Make sure to BOOK your free trade ticket TODAY.
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Georgina Baker
Sales Manager
T: 01273 645125
[email protected]
Simon Watkins
Sales Executive
T: 01273 645122
[email protected]
Anya Zervudachi
Sales Manager
T: 01273 916527
[email protected]
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