B1.3.5 - The menstrual cycle Flashcards
Define the menstrual cycle.
- The monthly release of an egg from a woman’s ovaries.
2. The monthly build up and breakdown of the lining of the uterus.
How long does a period usually last?
3-7 days
The female reproductive system works in a sequence called…
the menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle lasts for…
28 days (approximately)
The menstrual cycle is controlled by…
hormones
What happens on day 1 of the menstrual cycle?
Bleeding as the lining of the uterus breaks down.
What happens on day 5 of the menstrual cycle?
Bleeding usually stops and the lining of the uterus starts to regrow.
What is the function of the uterus lining?
To provide a spongy, blood rich layer for embryo implantation.
What happens on day 14 of the menstrual cycle?
Ovulation - an egg is released from one of the ovaries.
What happens if a sperm cell does not meet the egg after ovulation has happened?
The lining of the uterus breaks down and the menstrual cycle starts again from day 1.
What is contraception?
Where steps are taken to avoid becoming pregnant.
The 2 most common forms of contraception are:
- Condoms
2. The contraceptive pill
Condoms are a ‘barrier method’ of contraception. What does this mean?
It prevents sperm reaching the egg.
What can condoms do that the contraceptive pill cannot?
Protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections).
What does the contraceptive pill contain?
Hormones
