The female genital system undergoes a monthly cycle: 1. One ovum ripens and is released each month in a process called ovulation. 2. Hormones control the menstrual cycle, which typically lasts 28 days and involves the thickening and shedding of the uterine lining. 3. If the ovum is fertilized, hormones maintain the uterine lining and pregnancy occurs. If not, menstruation begins a new cycle.