Menstrual Cycle:

During the whole cycle, following changes are occurring;

1. Uterus (The lining is thickened and then ruptured and shed)

2. Ovary (Primary follicles are matured and egg is released)
3. Secretion of Hormones (Hormones controlling the changes in ovary and Uterus)

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

1. Menstrual Phase

Endometrium and blood vessels break down and mix with blood, mucus and other cell debris to
form menstrual blood (menses)

Menses: Discharge through vagina as menstrual flow

3-5 days

2. Follicular Phase

Primary follicle in ovary matures into a graafian follicle

Endometrium undergo proliferation of cells and become thick

3. Ovulatory Phase

Graafian follicle ruptures to release an ovum or egg cell into Fallopian Tube in the process called
ovulation
 4. Luteal Phase

Transformation of remaining graafian follicles to yellow mass/body known as Corpus Luteum

Endometrium thickens, blood vessels coiled and enlarged

Endometrium and Corpus Luteum plays vital role in early stages of conception

e.g: Fertilized egg embedded in endometrium derives nourishment from it

Corpus Luteum starts secreting Progesterone and helps in growth of embryo

In absence of fertilization; Corpus Luteum degenerates and triggers breakdown of

endometrium

This marks the beginning of menstrual phase and a new cycle.