Menstrual Cycle Overview

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What is the menstrual cycle?
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The menstrual cycle is a natural process that occurs in the female reproductive system, typically lasting around 28 days, involving the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy.
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What are the four main phases of the menstrual cycle?
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The four main phases are menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.
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What happens during menstruation?
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During menstruation, the lining of the uterus sheds, resulting in bleeding that lasts about 3-7 days.
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When does ovulation occur in the menstrual cycle?
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Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, when a mature egg is released from the ovary.
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What role do hormones play in the menstrual cycle?
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Hormones like estrogen and progesterone regulate the various phases of the menstrual cycle, enabling ovulation and preparation for pregnancy.
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What is the follicular phase?
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The follicular phase is the first half of the menstrual cycle, lasting about 14 days, where follicles in the ovaries mature and estrogen levels rise.
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What is the luteal phase?
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The luteal phase follows ovulation and lasts about 14 days, characterized by the secretion of progesterone, supporting potential pregnancy.
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What changes occur if pregnancy does not happen?
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If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone and estrogen levels fall, leading to the shedding of the uterine lining during menstruation.
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What marks the end of the follicular phase and the beginning of the luteal phase?
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Ovulation marks the transition from the follicular phase to the luteal phase.
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How long is a typical menstrual cycle?
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A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary between 21 to 35 days in length.
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How does the uterine lining change during the menstrual cycle?
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The uterine lining thickens during the follicular phase and is maintained by progesterone in the luteal phase, shedding if no implantation occurs.
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What triggers menstruation?
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The drop in progesterone and estrogen levels at the end of the luteal phase triggers menstruation.
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What is the role of the corpus luteum?
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The corpus luteum forms from an ovarian follicle post-ovulation and secretes progesterone to support a potential pregnancy.
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How does stress impact the menstrual cycle?
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Stress can alter hormone levels, potentially leading to irregular cycles or skipping periods altogether.
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What is PMS and what are its symptoms?
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PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) includes symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and headaches occurring before menstruation.
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