Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a monthly process that prepares the female body for potential pregnancy. It typically lasts about 28 days, though it can range from 21 to 35 days in different individuals. The cycle is divided into several phases:

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5): This phase begins on the first day of menstruation, when the lining of the uterus sheds if pregnancy has not occurred. This results in menstrual bleeding.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-13): Overlapping with the menstrual phase, this phase involves the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland, stimulating the ovaries to produce follicles. One follicle will mature into an egg (oocyte).

3. Ovulation (Day 14): Triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), ovulation occurs when the mature egg is released from the ovary. This is the most fertile period of the cycle.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): After ovulation, the empty follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. This hormone thickens the uterine lining in preparation for a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, leading to the breakdown of the uterine lining and the start of a new menstrual cycle.