The+menstrual+cycle

=**The Menstrual Cycle**=

The menstrual cycle are changes that occur in fertile women for the purpose of sexual reproduction and fertilization. This cycle lasts about 28 days and is commonly divided into three phases. These phases are the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.

=The Follicular Phase=

The follicular phase lasts from the first day of the menstrual cycle to the day of ovulation. During this phase the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, grows an thickens. In the ovaries, several follicles develop. One of these follicles then become dominant before ovulation.



=Ovulation= During ovulation, the ovarian follicles discharge and egg that is ready to be fertilized and has up to 48 hours to be fertilized. If an egg is not fertilized, it disintegrates and is absorbed into the uterine lining.



=Luteal Phase=

The luteal phase is the final phase of the menstrual cycle. Glands in the endometrium secrete proteins in preparation for the implantation of the fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, then menstrual flow begins.



=By: Elizabeth Nunes=