VonChaz is on a mission to shift the narrative around menstruation, advocating for people to see their cycles as a vital sign rather than an afterthought. “Your period is saying a lot more than just ‘you’re not pregnant,’” she says. By paying attention to changes in mood, flow and symptoms, people can gain deeper insights into their overall health.

One phase that deserves more attention, she says, is the luteal phase — the days leading up to menstruation that many experience as an emotional and physical rollercoaster. “I like to compare the phases of the cycle to the seasons. Ovulation is summer — we’re out, we have energy. Then the luteal phase is fall — everything is changing. If you don’t adjust, you’re gonna feel out of sync,” she explains.

To cope with the luteal phase, VonChaz suggests tracking symptoms through journaling. “It may sound silly, but writing down what’s happening in your body helps you see patterns. Are you more anxious? Are you cramping more than usual? Tracking these things helps you advocate for yourself when talking to doctors.”

Beyond physical symptoms, VonChaz also emphasizes the mental health aspect of menstruation. “There’s so much pressure to just push through pain — whether it’s emotional or physical. But your cycle is not something to ignore or apologize for.”

By taking ownership of your cycle, Chelsea says, empowerment inevitably follows. Showing up to doctor appointments equipped with your own data matters, especially in a field of medicine that often overlooks Black women’s symptoms.

As a period doula, she helps people navigate medical decisions about their wombs, ensuring they understand their own bodies and their needs are heard.