There was a time when we all had that red dot marked every month on our calendars, marking the date we got our period. However, now, thanks to technology, keeping track of our periods has become a lot easier. And it’s important to! From boosting your sex life to even increase the productivity of your work and social life, tracking your periods come with several benefits.

The second week of your cycle could be the perfect time to spice things up in the bedroom. “In weeks two and three, your testosterone and oestrogen levels are on the rise,” explained medic Dr Dawn Harper to a leading women’s magazine. “This is the time when women find it easier to achieve intense orgasms, so if you’re planning a dirty weekend away, this is the time to book it,” Harper added.

In week two, just after your period, the increase in oestrogen in your body means you have more energy and a higher tolerance for exercise. This will help you give your most in the gym and thus, help you get fitter and leaner even! “You’ll get a better fat burn for the same amount of exercise than you would at the end of your cycle, so it’s a great time for HIIT workouts,” said Dr Harper.

Tracking your period can help you feel productive even at work. According to Dr Harper, women tend to feel more productive and eloquent during week two of their cycle. During week three, however, you might want to pay a little more attention consciously. “Your oestrogen and testosterone levels will slump after ovulation. Studies have even shown that some women can be less erudite and articulate during this phase, so consider planning your work commitments around this,” Harper explained.

If you’re hoping to get pregnant, tracking your period will help do just that. For most women, your most fertile window falls between 12 and 16 days before your period starts, and the least fertile are the days after your period ends.

“Restless sleep is common around this time when you’re probably also feeling bloated and icky,” said Dr Harper. Exercise and limiting your caffeine intake can help regulate your circadian rhythm.
PS: Your menstrual cycle is measured from day one of your period up to the day of your next menstrual cycle - the length of the average menstrual cycle is 28 days.