The menstrual cycle involves the shedding of the uterine lining, which occurs if a fertilized egg does not implant in the uterus. This results in bleeding, which is commonly known as a woman’s period or menstrual period. The menstrual cycle also involves the release of an egg from the ovary, which can be fertilized by sperm if intercourse occurs during this time.
The menstrual cycle is influenced by various factors, including age, hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle factors, and underlying health conditions. It is important for women to understand their menstrual cycle in order to monitor their reproductive health and identify any irregularities or potential issues that may require medical attention.
HORMONES INVOLVED IN MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Several hormones are involved in the menstrual cycle, which work together to regulate the various stages of the cycle. These hormones include:
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries. The menstrual cycle can have various effects on the body, both physical and emotional. Some of the effects of the menstrual cycle on the body include.
Luteinizing hormone: LH is also produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for triggering ovulation, the release of the matured egg from the ovary.
Estrogen: Estrogen is produced by the developing follicle in the ovary and is responsible for thickening the lining of the uterus in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
Progesterone: Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum, which forms from the empty follicle after ovulation. It helps to maintain the thickened uterine lining and prepares the body for pregnancy.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): GnRH is produced by the hypothalamus and stimulates the pituitary gland to produce FSH and LH.
Testosterone: Though typically thought of as a male hormone, testosterone also plays a role in the menstrual cycle by promoting the growth and development of follicles in the ovaries.
These hormones work in a coordinated manner to regulate the menstrual cycle, which involves the maturation and release of an egg, thickening and shedding of the uterine lining, and the production of hormones that prepare the body for potential pregnancy.
WHAT ARE THE 4 STAGE OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE
The menstrual cycle can be divided into four stages: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Here’s a brief overview of each stage:
Menstrual phase: This is the first stage of the menstrual cycle and begins on the first day of menstrual bleeding. During this phase, the uterus sheds its lining, which results in menstrual bleeding that typically lasts 3 to 7 days.
Follicular phase: This stage follows the menstrual phase and is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is released by the pituitary gland and stimulates the growth of follicles, each containing an immature egg. Estrogen levels also rise during this phase, causing the uterine lining to thicken in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
Ovulation: This is the midpoint of the menstrual cycle, occurring around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. Luteinizing hormone (LH) is released by the pituitary gland, which causes the matured follicle to rupture and release an egg into the fallopian tube. This is the time when pregnancy is most likely to occur, as the egg can be fertilized by sperm during its journey through the fallopian tube.
Luteal phase: This is the final stage of the menstrual cycle and begins after ovulation. The empty follicle in the ovary forms the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to maintain the thickened uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilized, hormone levels will eventually drop, causing the uterine lining to shed, and the menstrual cycle will begin again.
Understanding the stages of the menstrual cycle can be helpful for tracking your cycle and identifying any irregularities or potential issues with your reproductive health.
BEGNING OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE
The beginning of the menstrual cycle is defined as the first day of menstrual bleeding. This marks the start of the menstrual phase, which is the first stage of the menstrual cycle. The menstrual phase typically lasts for 3 to 7 days and involves the shedding of the uterine lining, which results in menstrual bleeding. After the menstrual phase, the follicular phase begins
which is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries and the thickening of the uterine lining. This is followed by ovulation, the release of a matured egg from the ovary, and then the luteal phase, which involves the production of hormones to maintain the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
ENDING OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE
The ending of the menstrual cycle is defined as the last day of the luteal phase, which is the final stage of the menstrual cycle. During the luteal phase, the corpus luteum, which is the empty follicle in the ovary, produces progesterone to maintain the thickened uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, hormone levels will eventually drop, causing the uterine lining to shed. This marks the beginning of the next menstrual cycle and the start of the menstrual phase, which is the first stage of the menstrual cycle. The duration of the menstrual cycle varies for each woman, but on average, it lasts 28 days, with the menstrual phase lasting 3 to 7 days and the luteal phase lasting around 14 days.
MENARCHE
Menarche is the medical term for a girl’s first menstrual period, which marks the onset of puberty and the beginning of the reproductive years. Menarche typically occurs between the ages of 8 and 15, with the average age of onset being 12 years old. The timing of menarche can be influenced by factors such as genetics, nutrition, body weight, and overall health. It is important for girls to have a good understanding of their menstrual cycle and menstrual health, as well as access to menstrual products and medical care if needed. Girls who have not had their first menstrual period by age 16 should consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical issues.
MENOPAUSE
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation, which is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age of onset being 51. The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can cause a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy, or other medical treatments. Women who experience symptoms of menopause or have concerns about their reproductive health should consult with a healthcare provider for guidance and support.
EFFECT OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE ON BODY
The menstrual cycle can have various effects on the body, both physical and emotional. Some of the effects of the menstrual cycle on the body include:
Menstrual bleeding: The most obvious effect of the menstrual cycle is the shedding of the uterine lining, which results in menstrual bleeding. This bleeding can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days and can cause discomfort, cramping, and fatigue.
Changes in hormone levels: The menstrual cycle is driven by fluctuations in hormone levels, which can impact a woman’s mood, energy levels, and physical symptoms. For example, some women may experience mood swings, irritability, or anxiety during certain phases of the cycle.
Changes in body temperature: The menstrual cycle can also affect a woman’s body temperature. In the days leading up to ovulation, the body temperature may rise slightly, indicating that ovulation is imminent.
Changes in vaginal discharge: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also impact vaginal discharge, which may become thicker or more watery at different points in the cycle.
Changes in libido: Some women may experience changes in their sex drive during different phases of the menstrual cycle, with some women reporting an increase in libido around the time of ovulation.
It’s important to note that the effects of the menstrual cycle can vary widely from woman to woman, and some women may experience few or no symptoms at all. If you have concerns about the impact of your menstrual cycle on your body, talk to your healthcare provider.
