Menstrual Cycle (Ovarian Cycle)

The rhythmic series of changes in the sex organs throughout the reproductive life of a female primate (e.g., monkeys, apes, and human beings) from puberty to menopause is called the menstrual cycle (L. mensis = month, lunar month).

The menstrual cycle (Latin: mensis = month) is the rhythmic series of changes in the sex organs throughout the reproductive life of a female primate — from puberty (menarche) to menopause. It involves cyclic changes in the ovary and the female reproductive tract, mainly the uterus, and repeats approximately every 28–29 days. The cycle of events starting from one menstruation till the next one is called the menstrual cycle.

Quick Facts:

The menstrual cycle is temporarily stopped by pregnancy. Absence of menstruation may also indicate stress or illness.

• The menstrual cycle is a series of monthly changes in females of reproductive age.
• The beginning of the cycle is called menarche, and its permanent stop is called menopause (around 45–50 years).
• It occurs mainly in primates, including humans, and involves changes in the ovaries and uterus.
• The cycle is controlled by hormones (gonadotropins and ovarian hormones) and repeats every ~28 days.
• In the middle of the cycle, ovulation occurs, where an egg is released from one of the ovaries.