menstrual cycle Flashcards
Menstruation
The regular cycle of vaginal bleeding that occurs as a result of hormonal changes; typically occurs 1 a month
What does the beginning of menstruation signal?
The ovulation has begun
Ovulation
The release of ova (eggs) for fertilization
How many eggs are women born with, and how many do women release in their lifetime?
Women are born with 1-2 million eggs, but only release about 400 in their lifetime
Endometrium
The lining in the uterus
Where does ova mature in the beginning of the cycle?
In the ovaries
What grows thicker in preparation for implantation in the beginning of the cycle?
Into the endometrium (around day 14 of the cycle)
In the 2nd part of the cycle, where is ova released into?
The Fallopian tube
Where is the ova moved to after waiting in the Fallopian tube during the cycle?
To the uterus
What happens to the ova if it is not fertilized at the end of the cycle?
It is flushed out with the endometrium
What does happens if fertilization does occur in the cycle?
Pregnancy follows and menstruation stops until after childbirth
How often does the cycle occur?
Around every 22 to 45 days
What is day 1 of your period?
Day 1 of your cycle
