A phenomenological-based model of the endometrial growth and shedding during the menstrual cycle

The human endometrium presents a remarkable growth dynamic with an outstanding regenerative capacity. This work aims to develop a phenomenological-based dynamic model to predict the volume changes in the functional layer of the endometrium in each phase of the menstrual cycle. This model considers changes in the endometrial tissue, the blood flow through the spiral arteries, the shedding of the endometrial cells, and the menstrual blood flow. The input variables are estrogen and progesterone; these hormone dynamics are taken from a pre-existing and validated model. Key parameters are modified in order to know their effect on the state variables. The model response was quantitatively assessed using the experimental data of the endometrial cycle reported in the literature. The proposed model provides a better insight into the interactions between ovarian hormones and the endometrial cycle by coupling both physiological processes.