How does the menstrual cycle work?
The menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days. It can be as short as 21 days and as long as 35 days. These all are normal cycle lengths. Menstrual flow lasts about 3-6 days. The first day of the cycle is the first day of a period. There are three phases of a menstrual cycle. • Follicular (Proliferative) Phase occurs on about days 1-13. Menstruation happens at start of this phase. The endometrium thickens as it gets closer to the time of ovulation. • Ovulation occurs on about day 14. The egg is released from the follicle in the ovary. • A woman is most likely to become pregnant a few days before, during, and after this phase. • Luteal (Secretory) Phase occurs on about days 15-28. • If egg is fertilized, it attaches to thick lining of the uterus. • If egg is not fertilized, the blood vessel lining sheds. Menstruation and a new cycle begins. Hormones There are many types of hormones. Each one has a role in the body. Hormones need to be present in certain amounts at specific times in order for a
