Mechanism of Menstruation

Hello! Today, we will discuss how menstruation occurs and what processes underlie it. We will break down how hormones and the endometrium influence the menstrual cycle and why disorders might arise.

What is Menstruation?

Menstruation is a monthly process that occurs in a woman's body when the functional layer of the endometrium is shed. This process happens in several phases, controlled by hormones.

Structure of the Uterus and Endometrium

The uterus is a pear-shaped muscular organ, inside of which is a cavity lined with endometrium. The endometrium consists of two layers: the basal and the functional. The functional layer grows in response to hormones and is shed during menstruation.

The Role of Hormones in Menstruation

• Estradiol is a hormone produced in the ovaries during the growth of follicles. Its level influences the growth of the functional layer of the endometrium.
• Progesterone is a hormone produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation. It helps prepare the endometrium for the implantation of an embryo.

How Does Ovulation Occur?

At the beginning of the menstrual cycle, follicular growth begins in the ovaries, and one of the follicles becomes dominant and continues to grow faster than the others. When the follicle reaches maturity, it ruptures, and the egg is released, which is called ovulation.

The Corpus Luteum and Its Role

After ovulation, the ruptured follicle forms the corpus luteum, which begins producing progesterone. Progesterone halts the growth of the endometrium and prepares it for potential pregnancy.

When Pregnancy Does Not Occur

If fertilization does not occur, the level of progesterone sharply decreases, leading to the constriction of blood vessels in the endometrium, its shedding, and the start of menstruation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does Menstruation Occur Without Ovulation?

If ovulation does not happen, the endometrium continues to grow, but not under the influence of progesterone. When it reaches a critical thickness, it is shed, leading to menstruation.

How Do Hormones Affect Menstruation?

Pituitary hormones regulate the entire process of menstruation, including follicular growth, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. These hormones are sensitive to external factors, such as a woman's physical and emotional state.

Conclusion

Understanding the mechanism of menstruation helps to better understand how the female reproductive system works and what changes can occur during the cycle. This knowledge also aids in diagnosing various diseases and disorders.

Short Description for Blog:

Learn how changes occur in a woman's body during menstruation and which hormones play a key role in this process. This article explains the main stages of the menstrual cycle and its disorders.