B3.2.3 - The menstrual cycle Flashcards
What is the menstrual cycle?
It is a monthly cycle during which a women’s body gets ready for pregnancy?
How long does the menstrual cycle last for?
28 days
What is ovulation?
The release of a mature egg from an ovary
What happens if the egg is fertilised?
It may implant in the uterus lining which is then protected and receives nutrients and oxygen
What happens if the egg is not fertilised?
The uterus lining and the egg are removed from the body
What is the cervix?
The entrance to the uterus
What is the fallopian tube?
Where the egg is fertilised before travelling along the tube to the uterus
What is the Follicle-stimulating hormone?
It is secreted by the pituitary gland and travels to the ovaries where it causes an egg to mature
What is Oestrogen?
A hormones made and secreted by the ovaries. It causes the lining of the uterus to build up
What is the luteinising hormone?
It stimulates the release of an egg at day 14 (ovulation)
On average how much blood is lost from a women per month?
30-40cm3
What is progesterone?
This maintains the uterus lining. Levels of this hormone remain high throughout pregnancy
