THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE

WHAT IS THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE?

The menstrual cycle is a regular biological process that occurs in females of reproductive age. 

It is a complex process that involves the release of hormones, the development and shedding of the uterine lining, and the maturation and release of an egg from the ovaries to prepare for the likelihood of pregnancy.

 

PHASES OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE

The menstrual cycle consists of four phases: menstruation: the follicular phase; the ovulation phase; the luteal phase.

 

·      Menstruation

Menstruation occurs when the inner layer of the endometrial wall and other secretions exit through the vagina, and it usually lasts from three to seven days. 

The period may increase or decrease from one woman to another, as well as from one month to another.

 

·      Follicular phase

This phase begins on the first day of the menstrual cycle and ends at the ovulation stage, in which the pituitary gland located at the bottom of the brain secretes the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and it forms 10 to 20 follicles in the ovary, with an immature egg inside each follicle. 

So these follicles produce the hormone Estrogen, which in turn increases the thickness of the endometrial wall.

 

·      Ovulation

The ovulation phase occurs 12–16 days before the next cycle, and not necessarily in the middle of the menstrual cycle. 

A high percentage of the luteinizing hormone that activates the corpus luteum is released as it removes the mature egg from inside the follicle, so it moves from the ovary to the fallopian tube, and if it does not meet the sperm and fertilization does not occur at this stage, it goes to the uterus and decomposes within 2 to 24 hours.

 

·      Luteal phase

At this stage, the follicle from which the mature egg came out, called the corpus luteum, secretes a high amount of progesterone and a little estrogen, which contribute to increasing the thickness of the endometrial wall and maintaining its thickness. 

If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum fades, and thus the proportion of progesterone decreases, which leads to instability of the uterine lining, which ruptures, and bloody bleeding occurs that comes out through the vagina, which is called menstrual blood, and a new menstrual cycle begins.

FACTORS AFFECTING THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE

The menstrual cycle can be affected by a variety of factors, including stress, weight changes, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions. Irregular periods or abnormal bleeding can be a sign of an underlying issue and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Many women experience various symptoms during the menstrual cycle, including cramping, bloating, mood changes, and breast tenderness. 

These symptoms are caused by changes in hormone levels and can vary from woman to woman. 

Painful or uncomfortable symptoms can be managed with various treatments, including over-the-counter pain relievers, hormonal birth control, and lifestyle changes.

In addition to the basic hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle, there are also various external factors that can affect the timing and regularity of periods. These include:

 

§  Age

The menstrual cycle can change over time, with cycles becoming shorter or longer as women approach menopause.

 

§  Stress

Physical or emotional stress can affect hormone levels and lead to changes in the menstrual cycle.

 

§  Weight

Being underweight or overweight can affect hormone levels and lead to irregular periods.

 

§  Exercises

Intense or excessive exercise can also affect hormone levels and lead to changes in the menstrual cycle.

 

§  Medications

Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives, can affect the menstrual cycle.

 

§  Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, can affect the menstrual cycle.

 

CONCLUSION

 

Women can track their menstrual cycle using various methods, including calendar tracking, basal body temperature tracking, or using a menstrual cycle tracking app. 

This can help them predict when their period is due and identify any changes or irregularities in their cycle.

In addition to tracking their menstrual cycle, women should also take steps to maintain their reproductive health. 

This includes practicing safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), getting regular gynecological check-ups, and discussing any concerns or issues with a healthcare provider.

I WISH YOU HEALTH

AND WELLNESS