Living with a man post marriage ( not suggesting my readers to follow suit) has opened my eyes to the stark differences between how men and women operate in a patriarchial society. Expected to function like robots 24/7, women are often misunderstood. I am not here to champion feminism or fight for womens rights - its about recognising and respecting our unique differences. Men and women are inherently different as famously depicted in the book ''Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus".
So lets face it, Men and Women are wired differently and its time we embrace the truth. Scientifically it is well-established that men operate on a 24 hour hormonal cycle, synchronised with the sun's rhythm, while women follow a 28-days cycle aligned with the phases of the moon, known as the infradian rhythm. For years, women have been unfairly critised for experiencing mood swings due to their hormonal fluctuations. Yet, recent studies shed light on the fact that men, too, undergo hormonal cycles. Unlike women, whose hormonal cycle resets every 28 days, men experience hormonal swings every day within a 24-hour period. This biological variance isnt merely my opinion - it is backed by science.
Men and their hormonal cycle ;)
Men’s hormonal journey unfolds over a 24-hour period. Testosterone levels peak in the morning, fueling vigor and vitality for the day ahead, only to gradually decline by evening. Sleep initiates a testosterone replenishment process, kickstarting the cycle anew. But disruptions in this delicate balance can wreak havoc, leading to mood swings, fatigue, and even sexual performance issues.
Male Mood swings - causes and consequences :
Various factors can trigger mood swings in men, from stress and male menopause to low testosterone levels. While aging may contribute to hormonal imbalances, lifestyle choices and medical conditions can exacerbate the issue. Hormonal imbalances can wreak havoc on a man's mood, energy levels, sexual perfomance and overall well-being. Recognizing the signs of low testosterone, such as poor libido, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, and mood swings, allows for proactive measures to be taken.
Now lets understand the the female hormonal cycle :)
Women's menstrual cycles comprise four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Each phase brings distinct hormonal changes, influencing mood and well-being. While the follicular and ovulation phases often coincide with positivity and motivation, the luteal phase, characterized by hormonal fluctuations, can lead to irritability and fatigue. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms may emerge as progesterone and estrogen levels decline, affecting mood, energy, and physical comfort. The menstrual phase, or period, is a rollercoaster of symptoms – mood swings, tender breasts, cramping, migraines, and fatigue. On average, it lasts five to seven days, impacting a significant portion of a woman's month.
Comparing Male and Female Cycles: The Daily Grind vs. Monthly Rollercoaster
Men's 24-hour hormonal cycle aligns seamlessly with the standard workday, ensuring peak productivity during daylight hours. In contrast, women's biological rhythms often clash with the soceital expectations, designed without considering their unique needs. While men bask in morning energy surges, women grapple with cyclic fluctuations that can disrupt daily routines.
I have heard many men say - ''so what you are on your period , you are not the only one ! ''- One of the misconceptions surrounding menstruation is the idea that all women experience it in the same way. This oversimplified notion fails to acknowledge the vast spectrum of experiences that women may have during their menstrual cycles. From the duration and intensity of menstrual flow to the accompanying physical and emotional symptoms, each woman's experience is shaped by a myriad of factors, including genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and overall health.
Contrary to popular belief, not all women experience menstruation in a stereotypical manner. While some may have relatively mild periods with minimal discomfort, others may grapple with debilitating symptoms such as severe cramps, nausea, fatigue, and mood swings. Additionally, conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can further exacerbate the challenges faced by some women during their menstrual cycles. It's crucial to recognize that what may be a minor inconvenience for one woman can be a significant ordeal for another.
Instead of dismissing or trivializing a woman's experience with menstruation, it's essential to cultivate empathy and understanding. Rather than comparing or minimizing their experiences, men can play a supportive role by listening, validating, and offering assistance when needed. Recognizing the uniqueness of each woman's journey fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity, where women feel empowered to navigate their menstrual cycles with dignity.
Conclusion :
Acknowledging the inherent disparities between male and female hormonal cycles is crucial for fostering empathy and understanding. Instead of imposing uniform standards, embracing diversity paves the way for inclusive environments where individuals are valued for their unique attributes. The truth behind men’s 24-hour cycle and women’s 28-day cycle isn’t merely a matter of biology—it’s a call to action for greater understanding and acceptance. By acknowledging and accommodating these differences, we can forge a path towards a more inclusive and empathetic society, where individuals are celebrated for their inherent uniqueness. So, let’s embrace our diverse biological rhythms and pave the way for a more harmonious world.
