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Related Concept Videos

The Menstrual Cycle01:19

The Menstrual Cycle

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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...
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Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle01:22

Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle

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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...
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Menses Phase01:18

Menses Phase

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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...
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Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle01:30

Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle

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The ovarian cycle is meticulously regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This cycle orchestrates the release of a mature oocyte, essential for reproduction.
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle.  At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
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Secretory Phase01:19

Secretory Phase

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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.
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Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

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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...
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Rodent Estrous Cycle Monitoring Utilizing Vaginal Lavage: No Such Thing As a Normal Cycle
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Rodent Estrous Cycle Monitoring Utilizing Vaginal Lavage: No Such Thing As a Normal Cycle

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The normal menstrual cycle.

Khalida Itriyeva1

  • 1Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cohen Children's Medical Center, Northwell Health, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, 410 Lakeville Road, Suite 108, New Hyde Park, Hempstead, NY 11042, USA.

Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care
|May 8, 2022
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The menstrual cycle, a key indicator of adolescent health, involves regular hormonal feedback. Recognizing normal patterns and abnormalities is crucial for timely pediatric care and overall well-being.

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Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Endocrinology
  • Adolescent Gynecology

Background:

  • The normal ovulatory menstrual cycle depends on a mature hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and hormonal feedback loops.
  • Cycles include follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases, resulting in oocyte release and menstruation if fertilization doesn't occur.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline expected menstrual patterns in adolescents.
  • To identify menstrual abnormalities requiring medical evaluation.
  • To emphasize the menstrual cycle as a vital sign for overall health.

Main Methods:

  • Review of normal menstrual cycle physiology.
  • Description of common menstrual abnormalities in adolescents.
  • Guidance for pediatric practitioners on obtaining menstrual history.

Main Results:

  • Adolescent cycles may initially be anovulatory but typically become regular (21-45 days).
  • Menstrual abnormalities include absence of menarche by 15, 3-month amenorrhea, or menses >8 days.
  • Knowledge of normal patterns aids in identifying deviations.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric practitioners should understand normal menstrual patterns for effective counseling and early detection of abnormalities.
  • The menstrual cycle serves as a vital sign, reflecting overall adolescent health.
  • Timely identification of menstrual irregularities is essential for appropriate intervention.