Menstrual cycle

• What is the menstrual cycle?

  The monthly sequence of events in females
• What happens during the menstrual cycle?

  An egg is released and uterus prepares
• What are the four stages of the menstrual cycle?

  1. Menstruation starts (Day 1)
  2. Uterus lining repairs (Day 4 to 14)
  3. Ovulation occurs (Day 14)
  4. Lining maintained until Day 28
• What occurs on Day 1 of the menstrual cycle?

  Menstruation starts and lining breaks down
• What happens from Day 4 to Day 14 of the menstrual cycle?

  The uterus lining is repaired and thickens
• When does ovulation occur in the menstrual cycle?

  About Day 14
• What happens if no fertilised egg lands on the uterus wall by Day 28?

  The spongy lining breaks down and cycle restarts
• What does FSH stand for?

  Follicle-stimulating hormone
• Where is FSH released from?

  The pituitary gland
• What does oestrogen do in the menstrual cycle?

  Thickens and grows the uterus lining
• What are the four hormones that control the menstrual cycle?

  1. FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)
  2. Oestrogen
  3. LH (luteinising hormone)
  4. Progesterone
• What does FSH do in the menstrual cycle?

  Matures a follicle and stimulates oestrogen
• What triggers the LH surge?

  A high level of oestrogen
• What does LH stand for?

  Luteinising hormone
• What does the LH surge stimulate?

  Ovulation at Day 14
• What does LH stimulate after ovulation?

  Development of corpus luteum
• What does progesterone do after ovulation?

  Maintains the lining of the uterus
• What happens when progesterone levels fall?

  The uterus lining breaks down
• What happens if a fertilised egg implants in the uterus?

  Progesterone levels stay high
• What is the humorous mnemonic for FSH?

  A fish with no eye — FSH
• What is the overall process of the menstrual cycle?

  1. Menstruation starts (Day 1)
  2. Uterus lining repairs (Day 4 to 14)
  3. Ovulation occurs (Day 14)
  4. Lining maintained until Day 28
  5. If no fertilisation, lining breaks down
  6. Cycle restarts