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Related Concept Videos

Proliferative Phase01:20

Proliferative Phase

The proliferative phase typically occurs after menstruation and lasts between 6 to 13 days in a standard 28-day cycle. This phase involves the reconstruction of the endometrium, guided by estrogen produced by the developing ovarian follicle.
Notably, the stratum basale, the basal layer of the endometrium, including the basal parts of the uterine glands, remains unaffected by menstruation. Stem cells in this layer undergo mitosis, regenerating the stratum functionalis and thickening the...
The Menstrual Cycle01:19

The Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a recurrent sequence of changes in the uterine endometrium, specifically its functional layer, the stratum functionalis. This cycle prepares the uterus for potential pregnancy. This cycle typically spans 21–35 days, averaging 28 days, and aligns with the ovarian cycle, regulated by fluctuating levels of ovarian hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone.
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
Menses Phase01:18

Menses Phase

The uterine cycle begins with the menstrual phase, which is considered day one of the cycle and typically lasts about five days. This phase is characterized by the degeneration and shedding of the stratum functionalis, the functional layer of the endometrium.
When fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum deteriorates, causing a significant drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This hormonal decrease triggers the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterine...
Secretory Phase01:19

Secretory Phase

The secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, spanning from day 14 to 28 in a typical 28-day cycle, is a period of significant physiological changes in the female reproductive system. This phase commences immediately after ovulation and is characterized by the preparation of the endometrium for potential embryo implantation.
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle01:22

Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle

The ovarian cycle regulates endometrial changes throughout a single menstrual cycle via the coordinated action of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotrophins.
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 23, 2026

Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants
06:39

Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants

Published on: June 13, 2021

Postpartum period: three distinct but continuous phases.

Mattea Romano1, Alessandra Cacciatore, Rosalba Giordano

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico - Vittorio Emanuele. University of Catania, Italy.

Journal of Prenatal Medicine
|March 23, 2012
PubMed
Summary

The delayed postpartum period can last six months, with some genitourinary system changes persisting long-term after childbirth. Childbirth is linked to pelvic floor disorders like incontinence and prolapse, influenced by delivery factors.

Keywords:
genitourinary diseaselabourpelvic floor.postdelivery

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Analysis of Electrocardiograms and Behavior in Mice from Pregnancy to Lactation Period
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Analysis of Electrocardiograms and Behavior in Mice from Pregnancy to Lactation Period

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Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants
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Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants

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Analysis of Electrocardiograms and Behavior in Mice from Pregnancy to Lactation Period
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Analysis of Electrocardiograms and Behavior in Mice from Pregnancy to Lactation Period

Published on: April 5, 2024

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Pelvic Floor Health

Background:

  • The postpartum period is divided into three phases, with the delayed phase extending up to six months.
  • Genitourinary system changes post-childbirth can be long-lasting, with some alterations potentially being permanent.
  • Growing research highlights childbirth as a primary factor initiating various pelvic floor disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the long-term genitourinary and pelvic floor changes following childbirth.
  • To identify conditions associated with the delayed postpartum period.
  • To explore factors influencing the resolution and severity of postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on postpartum recovery and pelvic floor support.
  • Analysis of conditions linked to childbirth and the delayed postpartum period.
  • Examination of variables affecting the duration and severity of pelvic floor disorders.

Main Results:

  • The delayed postpartum period can last up to six months.
  • Persistent genitourinary changes are common, with some never fully reverting to the prepregnant state.
  • Conditions such as stress urinary incontinence, flatus/fecal incontinence, uterine prolapse, cystocele, and rectocele are frequently associated with childbirth.

Conclusions:

  • Childbirth is a significant initiator of pelvic floor dysfunction.
  • Factors like infant size, delivery route, perineal trauma, and intrinsic collagen support influence the severity and duration of these conditions.
  • Understanding these long-term effects is crucial for postpartum care and management.