Uterine Cycle

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Created by
Amira

Cards (8)

  • Menstrual Cycle (Uterine Cycle)

    Cyclic changes that occur in the uterus of a female in preparation for possible implantation of a fertilized egg
  • Uterine Cycle

    • Regulated by hormonal interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries, and uterus
    • Typically lasts for about 28 days, but can vary from woman to woman
    • Divided into three main phases: menstrual phase, proliferative phase, and secretory phase
  • Menstrual Phase

    1. Shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium) that was prepared during the previous cycle
    2. Occurs when levels of estrogen and progesterone decline due to degeneration of the corpus luteum
    3. Menstrual bleeding typically lasts for 3 to 7 days
    4. Overlaps with the later part of the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle
  • Proliferative Phase

    1. Rising levels of estrogen secreted by developing ovarian follicles stimulate thickening of the endometrium
    2. Increased estrogen levels promote growth and development of blood vessels in the uterine lining
    3. Estrogen causes the cervix to produce clear and stretchy cervical mucus, facilitating sperm transport and fertilization
    4. Typically lasts from around day 5 to day 14 of the menstrual cycle, overlapping with the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle
  • Secretory Phase

    1. Corpus luteum secretes progesterone, which further thickens the endometrium and prepares it for potential implantation
    2. Glands within the endometrium enlarge and secrete a nutrient-rich fluid supportive of early embryo development
    3. If fertilization and implantation do not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone levels decline, and the secretory phase ends, leading to shedding of the endometrium and onset of the next menstrual phase
  • Uterine Cycle

    Closely intertwined with the ovarian cycle, and the hormonal interactions between the two regulate the cyclic changes that occur within the reproductive system
  • Purpose of the Uterine Cycle
    To create an environment that is favorable for embryo implantation and support early pregnancy
  • If fertilization does not occur, the cycle repeats, and a new uterine cycle begins with the shedding of the old endometrium during menstruation