Diagram of Menstrual Cycle

The diagram of menstrual cycle of a human female is important in understanding how the female reproductive system works and how pregnancy can occur. The monthly bleeding that occurs from a female’s vagina is known as period or menstruation. The diagram of menstrual cycle in class 12 helps students understand its four phases. The menstrual cycle is important because it acts as an indicator of female reproductive health.

Below is a labeled diagram of menstrual cycle which depicts its different phases:

What is the Menstrual Cycle?

After reaching puberty, the process of ovulation starts in the female body. The menstrual cycle diagram explained how every month an egg is released from either of the two fallopian tubes. If fertilized leads to pregnancy and if not, the lining of the uterus starts to shed leading to menstruation.

A menstrual cycle lasts for around 28 days and starts from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period. The beginning of menstruation in females is termed menarche, and the end is called menopause. The menstrual cycle is governed by various female hormones like Estrogen, Luteinising hormone, Follicle-stimulating hormone and Progesterone.

What are the 4 Phases of Menstrual Cycle?

The diagram of menstrual cycle shows that it consists of four different phases:

1. Menstrual Phase: In this the uterine lining sheds which leads to the release of blood from the vagina. This period phase lasts from 3-7 days. In this phase the estrogen and progesterone level are very low. Aids such as tampons, sanitary pads or menstrual cups can be used to tackle the period problem.
2. Follicular Phase: In this stage, the essential follicle begins forming into a full-grown Graafian follicle. The endometrium additionally begins multiplying. The uterus begins the groundwork for another pregnancy. 
3. Ovulatory Stage: This phase happens between days 13 and 17. In this phase, a mature egg is released by the fallopian tube which starts making its way towards the uterus.
4. Luteal Phase: It is the post-ovulation stage, where the destiny of the corpus luteum is chosen. If a fertilised egg implants in the lining of the uterus, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone, which maintains the thickened lining of the uterus. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum dies, progesterone levels drop, the uterus lining sheds and the period begins again.

Importance of Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle diagram with labels shows it various phases. The proper functioning of this cycle is crucial for female reproductive and overall health. Following points highlight the importance of menstrual cycle:

• The menstrual cycle helps in regulating reproductive health. It helps in proper shedding of the uterine lining to maintain proper reproductive cycle.
• The menstrual cycle helps in achieving pregnancy as a person can know the highly potent days for conceiving.
• In case there are any changes to the menstrual cycle, it can be indicative of an underlying medical issues such as PCOS and thyroid problems.
• Estrogen hormone is vital in maintaining bone density. Any variation is the menstrual cycle can result in bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
• A regular menstrual cycle is an indicator of good health.

Conclusion – Diagram of Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle diagram helps us understand all the phases occurring during it. The process starts from the menstrual phase followed by the follicular, ovulatory and luteal phases. Menstrual cycle plays an important role in maintaining female reproductive health.

FAQs on Diagram of Menstrual Cycle

What is the Average Length of a Menstrual Cycle?

The average length of a menstrual cycle is around 27-28 days but sometimes it varies from person to person.

What are the Four Stages of Menstrual Cycle?

There are four phases seen in the menstrual cycle diagram- Menstruation Phase, Follicular, Ovulation and Luteal Phase.

What are Some Symptoms of Menstruation?

Some symptoms of menstruation are bloating, muscle aches, joint pain, headaches, abdominal cramps and lower back pain.

What Causes Menstrual Irregularities?

In some cases, some irregularities can be seen in the menstrual cycle due to condition like PCOS, Adolescence, Uterine Fibroids, etc.

Which Human Organs are Involved in the Menstrual Cycle?

The hormones play a major role in controlling the menstrual cycle. These are secreted by the endocrine glands like the hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. The ovary is also a major organ involved in the female menstrual cycle.

What is the Menstrual Cycle?

The menstrual cycle is a natural process in females involving hormonal changes, uterine lining thickening, ovulation, and shedding of the uterine lining if fertilization doesn’t occur.