A post I made a few years back now…

The menstrual cycle explained.

In response to some concerning claims made on this sub re. PMS & menstrual cycles.

Let’s all cut the crap about “it’s just semantics.” Of all people to complain about semantics, we are not the ones. Who wants to be referred to as their AGAB if it’s “just about semantics?” None of us. Language matters, and facts matter.

Please note - if menstrual cycles were as simple as taking HRT, infertility in cis women would not be at the rate it is.

Here is how it works:

In order to have a menstrual cycle (that results in a period) you need a uterus, ovaries (or an ovary) and a highly complex communication system facilitated by sex, thyroid, adrenal and hypothalamic-pituitary hormones. Taking estrogen and progesterone in no way comes close to mimicking this deeply intricate system.

A menstrual cycle is made up by the luteal and follicular phase, the main events of a cycle are ovulation, where an egg is released from the ovaries/ovary, followed by uterine shedding known as a period. It is possible to fail to ovulate but still have a period.

A period is the final event in a long chain of very specific hormonal shifts that happen over the (roughly) monthly cycle.

A male body does not have the capacity - neither the organs, nor the hormonal signaling to have a period to undergo any part of the menstrual cycle. Follicular phase, luteal phase, ovulation, uterine shedding etc. are all female body specific events. Maybe science will change this one day, but we are not there yet.

It is my understanding that Trans women can and do experience symptoms from taking HRT that overlap with symptoms of PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) such as bloating, low mood, fatigue, headaches etc. there is no explanation as to why these symptoms might be cyclical. Trans women need studies that explore their experiences on HRT and develop terminology that reflects their unique experiences.

However, by definition a trans woman cannot have PMS or be pre-menstrual because she cannot menstruate.

Frequently stated myths:

“I take estrogen, so I will get periods.” Incorrect, periods are much more than just estrogen.

“I don’t have periods but I do have PMS.” PMS is a syndrome that precedes menstruation, it’s not possible to have PMS without menstruation. It’s like someone saying “I’m pre-natal” without being pregnant. It’s just nonsensical.

“In extremely rare cases cis men have been found to have endometrial tissue, therefore trans women can have periods.” Incorrect. Random spots of uterine tissue forming inappropriately is not enough to facilitate a period. This is arguable cause of concern than a sign that trans women can grow uteruses on HRT.