Menstrual Cycle

Study Notes

Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a complex process controlled by hormones that prepares the female body for a potential pregnancy every month.
The average cycle length is 28 days, but can vary from 21 to 35 days.
The cycle consists of three phases:
1. Menstruation ( Days 1-5): Shedding of the uterine lining, resulting in bleeding.
2. Follicular phase (Days 1-14): Estrogen levels rise, causing follicles in the ovaries to mature and prepare for ovulation.
3. Luteal phase (Days 15-28): Progesterone levels rise, preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Reproductive Anatomy

Ovaries: Produce eggs (oocytes) and hormones (estrogen and progesterone).
- Located on either side of the uterus, connected to the uterus by the fallopian tubes.
Fallopian tubes: Muscular tubes that allow the egg to travel from the ovary to the uterus.
- Fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tubes.
Uterus: A muscular, hollow organ that supports fetal development during pregnancy.
- Divided into three layers: endometrium (inner lining), myometrium (middle layer), and perimetrium (outer layer).
Cervix: The lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
Vagina: A muscular, elastic tube that connects the cervix to the outside of the body.
Vulva: The external female genital area, including the labia, clitoris, and opening of the vagina.
Breasts: Produce milk for lactation, controlled by hormones.
- Composed of glandular, fatty, and connective tissue.

Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones and prepares the female body for potential pregnancy every month.
The average cycle length is 28 days, but can vary from 21 to 35 days.
The cycle consists of three phases: menstruation, follicular phase, and luteal phase.

Menstruation

Occurs on days 1-5 of the menstrual cycle.
Characterized by shedding of the uterine lining, resulting in bleeding.

Follicular Phase

Occurs on days 1-14 of the menstrual cycle.
Estrogen levels rise, causing follicles in the ovaries to mature and prepare for ovulation.

Luteal Phase

Occurs on days 15-28 of the menstrual cycle.
Progesterone levels rise, preparing the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Reproductive Anatomy

Ovaries:
- Produce eggs (oocytes) and hormones (estrogen and progesterone).
- Located on either side of the uterus, connected to the uterus by the fallopian tubes.
Fallopian tubes:
- Muscular tubes that allow the egg to travel from the ovary to the uterus.
- Fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tubes.
Uterus:
- A muscular, hollow organ that supports fetal development during pregnancy.
- Divided into three layers: endometrium (inner lining), myometrium (middle layer), and perimetrium (outer layer).
Cervix:
- The lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
Vagina:
- A muscular, elastic tube that connects the cervix to the outside of the body.
Vulva:
- The external female genital area, including the labia, clitoris, and opening of the vagina.
Breasts:
- Produce milk for lactation, controlled by hormones.
- Composed of glandular, fatty, and connective tissue.

Description

Understand the different phases of the menstrual cycle, including menstruation, follicular phase, and luteal phase. Learn how hormones control the cycle and prepare the female body for potential pregnancy.