The menstrual cycle is a monthly process in a woman's body that prepares for potential pregnancy, typically lasting about 28 days. It consists of four main phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal, each with distinct hormonal changes and physical symptoms. Understanding the cycle is vital for health awareness, planning for pregnancy, and recognizing the natural changes in the body.

1. Understanding the
Menstrual Cycle

2. What is the Menstrual
Cycle?
● The menstrual cycle is a monthly process
in a woman's body.
● It prepares the body for a possible
pregnancy.
● It usually lasts about 28 days but can be
shorter or longer.

3. Phases of the
Menstrual Cycle
● There are four main phases:
● Menstrual phase
● Follicular phase
● Ovulation phase
● Luteal phase
● Each phase has different changes in the
body.

4. Menstrual Phase
● This phase lasts about 3 to 7 days.
● The body sheds the lining of the uterus.
● This is when a woman has her period.

5. Follicular Phase
● This phase starts on the first day of the
period.
● The body produces hormones to prepare
for ovulation.
● Follicles in the ovaries begin to mature.

6. Ovulation Phase
● Ovulation usually occurs around day 14 of
the cycle.
● An egg is released from the ovary.
● This is the best time for pregnancy to
happen.

7. Luteal Phase
● This phase lasts about 14 days after ovulation.
● The body prepares for a possible pregnancy.
● If the egg is not fertilized, the cycle starts over.

8. Hormones in the
Menstrual Cycle
● Hormones like estrogen and progesterone
play important roles.
● They help regulate the cycle and prepare
the body.
● Changes in hormones can affect mood
and energy levels.

9. Common Symptoms
● Some common symptoms include:
● Cramps
● Mood swings
● Bloating
● These symptoms are normal and can vary
for each person.

10. Why is it Important?
● Understanding the menstrual cycle helps with health awareness.
● It can help in planning for pregnancy or understanding changes
in the body.
● It’s a natural part of growing up for many girls.

11. Questions to Think
About
● What do you think happens if the cycle is
irregular?
● How can someone manage symptoms
during their period?
● Why is it important to talk about the
menstrual cycle?