THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE
FACT SHEET
What are the phases of the Ovulation menstrual cycle? What is the Ovulation occurs around 2 weeks before The phases of the menstrual cycle the end of a menstrual cycle (generally mid- menstrual cycle consists of period/menstruation, follicular cycle, but this can vary). Ovulation is when phase, ovulation and luteal phase. a mature egg is released from an ovary and travels through the fallopian tube to the The menstrual cycle is a Period/Menstruation uterus. Once an egg is released, it survives hormonal and physical cycle A period or menstruation is the for 12-24 hours. This is when an egg can be that the body goes through shedding of the lining of the uterus fertilised if sperm is present. in preparation for pregnancy (womb) in response to hormonal Sperm could be present if the person has - often occuring monthly. The changes. Menstrual fluid contains had unprotected vaginal intercourse with menstrual cycle usually starts blood and cells from the endometrium someone with a penis in the previous 5-7 between the ages of 8 to 16. The (lining of the uterus). days. If the egg is fertilised and implants into beginning of the menstrual cycle Generally, the bleeding during a period the uterus, then a pregnancy develops and often occurs after other sexual lasts for 2-7 days but can vary. the menstrual cycle will usually stop for the time being. characteristics have developed, Menstruation can also vary in colour such as breasts and pubic hair. and consistency. Periods are usually Luteal Phase Menstrual cycles continue heavier over the first day or two than The luteal phase is where the body prepares until menopause, which usually they are towards the end. for pregnancy. The endometrium thickens occurs between the ages of Follicular Phase making the body prepared for a fertilised egg 45-55. to implant. If pregnancy doesn’t happen the The follicular phase starts on the first lining of the uterus will shed, causing a period. day of menstruation and ends with ovulation. Following a period, two What is a healthy menstrual cycle? main things happen over the next two weeks: usually one egg will mature and When it comes to menstrual cycles there be released and the lining of the uterus is a wide range of what is healthy. Typically, thickens in preparation for a possible a menstrual cycle lasts from 21 to 35 days pregnancy. although it can be shorter or longer (the length of a menstrual cycle is measured from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period).
Fallopian tube Uterus
Ovary Endometrium
Cervix
Menstrual fluid Vagina
FollicularFollicular phase Phase OvulationOvulation LutealLuteal phase Phase