Question

What is menstrual cycle? Explain the changes that occur during the menstrual cycle in an adolescent girl.

Answer 1

Menstrual cycle is the process of forming and releasing ova and it starts during adolescence. The uterus prepares for pregnancy and under the influence of hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, the ovary releases a mature ovum during ovulation by around 14^th day of the menstrual cycle. When the ovum is not fertilized by a male sperm, it is thrown out of the body along with outer lining of uterus and hormone levels drops. Menstruation occurs when the uterus wall lining starts breaking down and sheds, causing blood loss, which lasts for 4 to 6 days.