The menstrual cycle is a sequence of physiological changes known to occur only within fertile women. The menstrual cycle has several phase divisions. The cycle starts off with “menstruation” on the first day, the “follicular phases” are next in the sequence, followed by ovulation and the final phase called “luteal phase”. Blood pressure varies slightly during the menstrual cycle but is usually not significant.

Menstruation
A study posted on the website of “National Institute of Health” says that blood pressure is at its peak at the very beginning of menstruation, and lowers significantly by the end of the cycle.

Follicular Phase
According to the aforementioned study, blood pressure is still higher during follicular phase than the final phase.

Ovulation
Other smaller studies indicate that there might be a slight rise in blood pressure through the stage of Ovulation. Doctors blame the hormones released during this phase.

Luteal Phase
According to some studies, the luteal phase also houses a higher blood pressure than normal, yet lower than the blood pressures recorded during the previous phases.

The hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle may possibly be responsible for such fluctuation in blood pressure. Certain hormones, progesterone to be specific, may cause slight increase in blood pressure during the menstrual cycle.