Menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is the regular natural change that occurs in the female
reproductive system (specifically the uterus and ovaries) that
makes pregnancy possible. The menstrual cycle is the series of changes your
body goes through to prepare for a possible pregnancy. About once a month,
the uterus grows a new, thickened lining (endometrium) that can hold a
fertilized egg. When there is no fertilized egg to start a pregnancy, the uterus
then sheds its lining. This is the monthly menstrual bleeding (also called
menstruation or menstrual period).
The menstrual cycle is measured from the first day of menstrual bleeding,
Day 1, up to Day 1 of your next menstrual bleeding. Although 28 days is the
average cycle length, it is normal to have a cycle that is shorter or longer.

A teen's cycles may be long (up to 45 days), growing shorter over

several years.
Between ages 25 and 35, most women's cycles are regular, generally
lasting 21 to 35 days.
Around ages 40 to 42, cycles tend to be the shortest and most regular.
This is followed by 8 to 10 years of longer, less predictable cycles until
menopause.