How the menstrual cycle works

Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5): This is the start of the cycle, marked by menstrual bleeding. The shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium) occurs if there is no pregnancy, resulting in the discharge of blood and tissue from the vagina.

Follicular Phase (Days 1-14): Overlaps with the menstrual phase. During this phase, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to produce follicles. Each follicle contains an egg, and as the follicles mature, they release estrogen to rebuild the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy.

Ovulation (Around Day 14): Triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. The egg travels down the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm. This is the most fertile period of the cycle.

Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. Progesterone further thickens the uterine lining and maintains it for a potential embryo. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, leading to a drop in progesterone levels.

Menstruation Begins Again: The drop in progesterone triggers the shedding of the uterine lining, marking the start of a new menstrual cycle.

Key Hormones
Estrogen: Promotes follicle development and uterine lining growth.
Progesterone: Maintains the uterine lining and regulates the cycle.
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Stimulates follicle growth.
LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers ovulation.
Overall, the menstrual cycle is a complex interplay of hormonal signals and physiological changes, ensuring the body is prepared for pregnancy each month