It’s common for people who menstruate to have some kind of method for remembering when their period is due: Maybe you make a note of it on your Google calendar or receive a quick “red heart” emoji from your friend who is on the same cycle. For some, however, there’s a different dead giveaway that it’s that time of the month: the cycle of the moon. It’s pretty common to have a period on the full moon (give or take a few days), and the “red moon cycle” as they’re called has ancient origins—and astrologically, some experts say it’s a lucky alignment.

First, let’s break down the likelihood of your period aligning with the full moon. The average menstrual cycle lasts anywhere between 21 and 32 days as you move through the follicular, ovulation, luteal, and menstruation phases (these phases are also why your period blood color changes throughout your cycle.) When your progesterone levels drop in the luteal phase, you pave the way for your period, which lasts an average of two to seven days.

Of course, the moon is also on a cycle (albeit one that’s notably more predictable). The full moon occurs every 29.5 days—meaning there is a good chance that your period could sync with a full moon. “If you find yourself ovulating during the new moon and bleeding during the waxing and full moons, then you’re following what is traditionally known as the ‘red moon’ menstruation cycle,” says Syd Robinson, author of the forthcoming astrological book Who Do the Stars Say You Are? 

Find out what it means to get your period during or near the full moon, medically and spiritually.

What does it mean if you get your period on or around a full moon?

The anecdotal and historical astrological significance of having your period on a full moon isn’t backed by science (at least, not yet). “Although some studies have demonstrated a possible connection between getting your period and a new moon, there is no conclusive evidence that suggests that your period and the full moon are linked,” says Laura Purdy, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician.

Dr. Purdy caveats that some recent research indicates that if there were a connection between the menstrual and lunar cycle in the past, the increasing amount of artificial light folks are now exposed to at night may have severed it. (Meaning, it may have formerly been a thing!) Now, though, “if your period is synched up with the full moon, this is likely a random occurrence, rather than anything else,” she says.

But, that’s the studied, medical take. As for the spiritual significance, you can freely be the judge—or, you can take the wisdom of astrologers below.

What is the spiritual meaning of a red moon cycle?

If you happen to have this moon alignment, says Robinson, it’s likely you’ll witness a few major (and often lucky!) themes in your life during each period: creativity, mentorship, and healing. “In ancient times, this cycle was symbolically tied to shamanism and healers, and largely associated with feelings of creativity, passion, and mentorship,” she says. “Since waxing and full moons are typically linked to outgoing, inspiring energies, you may find yourself more focused on lending your maternal spirit outward.” This could inspire you to mentor others or dive headfirst into your own creative projects.

“In ancient times, this cycle was largely associated with feelings of creativity, passion, and mentorship.” —Syd Robinson, author of the forthcoming book Who Do the Stars Say You Are? 

Plus, since the full moon symbolizes intense emotions, release, and completion, Erin River Sunday says that spiritually, getting your period on or around the full moon can mean that your body is energetically aligned with lunar magic. “It’s a time to surrender: spiritually, physically, and emotionally and indicates that the veil between worlds is thin,” says Sunday. She notes that your intuition might also be heightened during this time.

“It’s a time to surrender: spiritually, physically, and emotionally and indicates that the veil between worlds is thin.”—Erin River Sunday, astrologer

And fortunately, there’s really no harm in following the call of the red moon cycle and unleashing your creativity, flexing your mentorship muscles, or stepping into your psychic abilities anyway. In fact, if you’re feeling yourself when your period comes along—no matter when in the moon’s cycle that happens—go ahead and shine like that ultra-bright full moon.

How to practice self-care during a red moon cycle

If you menstruate, you know just how intense it can be when it’s that time of the month. Being plagued by mood swings, debilitating cramps, and overall discomfort can feel all-consuming, and for that reason, taking care of yourself in the process is of the utmost importance. Sure, you can execute a new moon or full moon ritual, but if you’re surviving visceral menstrual symptoms, is your main concern, there are other ways to make the most of your red moon cycle.

One way to stay grounded during your red moon cycle, according to Sunday, is listening to your body’s needs. “To bleed with the Full Moon is to honor the rest that your body is requesting,” Sunday explains. “You’re more sensitive, spiritually, physically, and emotionally at this time– so nourishment should be prioritized.” Satisfy your sweet tooth, eat comfort foods, and allow yourself to scroll through social media (with moderation, of course!) if your body so craves it.

Sunday also suggests, “taking baths and spending time in nature are all slow, meditative ways to quiet the mind and surrender to the literal flow,” to work with your red moon cycle, as it allows you to surrender to the intense energy of the full moon and helps you center yourself in the midst of period-related matters.