Menstrual
Menstrual Cycle
The Menstrual Cycle (pronunciation: /ˈmɛnstrʊəl ˈsaɪkəl/) is a natural biological process that occurs in the female reproductive system. It is a monthly cycle that prepares the uterus for pregnancy.
Etymology
The term "menstrual" is derived from the Latin word menses, which means "month". This is in reference to the monthly nature of the menstrual cycle.
Definition
The menstrual cycle is the regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system (specifically the uterus and ovaries) that makes pregnancy possible. The cycle is required for the production of ovocytes, and for the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy.
Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is divided into several phases:
- Follicular Phase: This phase starts on the first day of the menstrual cycle and ends with ovulation. The main events during this phase are the maturation of the follicles in the ovaries and the thickening of the uterine lining.
- Ovulation: This is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. It usually occurs around the middle of the menstrual cycle.
- Luteal Phase: This phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next menstrual cycle. The main events during this phase are the formation of the corpus luteum and the further thickening of the uterine lining.
- Menstruation: If the egg is not fertilized, the thickened uterine lining is shed during menstruation.
Related Terms
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): A collection of emotional symptoms, with or without physical symptoms, related to a woman's menstrual cycle.
- Menopause: The time that marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles.
- Amenorrhea: The absence of a menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age.
- Dysmenorrhea: Painful periods, or menstrual cramps.
- Menorrhagia: Abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Menstrual
- Wikipedia's article - Menstrual
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