Being a woman is never easy. Between the periods, confusing hormones, and everything in between, sometimes it's hard to know if the the way you're feeling is, well, actually just the way you're feeling.

But if you've been looking for answers to why your love life has gotten extra complicated recently, we've got just the thing to blame it on… Venus in retrograde.

Yep, that pesky phrase 'retrograde' is back in our lives, but instead of striking fear into us all by teaming up with Mercury, this time Venus is the planet in question - and the results are quite different.

While Mercury in retrograde tends to affect the mind (which is why your communication skills takes a big hit during these times e.g., your typical, good-natured sarcasm comes across as way more aggressive), Venus in retrograde is all about luuurve.

From March 4 until April 15, Venus retrograde runs amok, and whether you see this as a good or a bad thing, this astrological optical illusion equals big tests for your love life - and now that we're in the full throws of it, you might recognize some of the signs.

If you (or a friend) is noticing that you are jumping head first into a new relationship, you should probably be wary. On the flip side, if you're currently rekindling with an old flame, you might want to reassess things once Venus goes direct after April 15.

Essentially, you need to expect mixed signals during this time as your sensual nature is getting messed with, and the best way to embrace this is to avoid any huge gestures (like booking a romantic last-minute getaway) or anything decided on a whim.

Instead, allow yourself this time to reflect on your feelings instead. You may find that when you step back and start reassessing your relationships, be it with friends or partners, you'll have some clarity about things you're happy or unhappy with, and will be keen to discuss them. This is why Venus in retrograde can be useful.

So, even though big changes are off the table for now, that doesn't mean you can't talk through old issues you've had with those closest to you - this is a time of contemplation, after all.

Besides love, the goddess Venus also rules over our ideas of beauty. So if you're thinking of getting a drastic makeover before April 15, it's probably best to hold off and indulge yourself with Pinterest boards and general inspiration instead. Your ideas are most likely sound, but Venus in retrograde is more about contemplation rather than new actions… plus, it never hurts to be on the safe side, eh?

From: Cosmopolitan UK