MENSTRUAL CYCLE

DEFINITION :

“The cyclic events that take place in a rhythmic fashion during the reproductive period of a women’s life is called menstrual cycle ”

• Menstrual cycle starts at the age of 12-15 years .
• First occurrence of menstruation called menarche
• Permanent cessation of menstrual cycle is called menopause (40-50) years
• Duration of menstrual cycle 28 days

PHASES OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE :

Throughout the menstrual cycle, the body undergoes various physical and hormonal changes, preparing for the possibility of pregnancy each month. These changes happen in a cyclical pattern and are regulated by fluctuating hormone levels. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes that occur during each phase of the menstrual cycle:

1. Menstrual Phase (Day 1–5)

• Hormonal Changes: Hormone levels (particularly estrogen and progesterone) drop, triggering the shedding of the uterine lining.
• Physical Changes:
  • Menstruation (period) occurs, characterized by the shedding of the uterine lining, resulting in bleeding.
  • The bleeding lasts typically between 3 to 7 days.
  • The flow can range from light spotting to heavy bleeding, depending on the individual.
• Energy Levels: Many people experience fatigue, cramps, and general discomfort due to hormonal fluctuations.

2. Follicular Phase (Day 1–13)

• Hormonal Changes: The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. These follicles contain immature eggs. As the follicles mature, they secrete estrogen, which helps rebuild the uterine lining (endometrium).
• Physical Changes:
  • The uterine lining thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
  • Cervical mucus becomes thinner and more stretchy, which helps sperm travel more easily through the cervix if ovulation occurs.
• Energy Levels: Many people feel an increase in energy and better mood as estrogen levels rise. Skin may also improve due to rising estrogen.

3. Ovulation (Day 14)

• Hormonal Changes: A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and a smaller rise in FSH triggers ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the dominant follicle in the ovary.
• Physical Changes:
  • The egg is released into the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm.
  • Cervical mucus becomes even more abundant and slippery (like raw egg whites), facilitating sperm movement.
  • Some people may experience mild cramping or spotting, known as ovulation pain or mittelschmerz.
• Energy Levels: Many people feel more energetic, confident, or attractive during ovulation due to higher levels of estrogen.

4. Luteal Phase (Day 15–28)

• Hormonal Changes: After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. This hormone supports the thickened uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
  • If the egg is fertilized, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone until the placenta forms.
  • If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum breaks down, leading to a decrease in progesterone and estrogen.
• Physical Changes:
  • If pregnancy does not occur, the uterine lining begins to break down, leading to pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS), such as bloating, mood swings, fatigue, irritability, and breast tenderness.
  • As hormone levels drop, the cervical mucus becomes thicker and less noticeable.
• Energy Levels: Many people experience a decrease in energy, increased irritability, and symptoms of PMS during this phase.