From the Research
The menstrual cycle is a complex process regulated by hormonal interactions, consisting of four main phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase, which are influenced by fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, as described in the study by 1. The menstrual cycle typically consists of four main phases that repeat approximately every 28 days, though cycle length varies among women.
- The first phase is menstruation, lasting about 3-7 days, when the uterine lining sheds causing bleeding if pregnancy doesn't occur.
- Next is the follicular phase, overlapping with menstruation and continuing until ovulation (days 1-13), when estrogen levels rise and the uterine lining rebuilds, as explained in the study by 2.
- Ovulation occurs around day 14 when a mature egg is released from the ovary in response to a surge of luteinizing hormone.
- Finally, the luteal phase spans days 15-28, when the ruptured follicle forms the corpus luteum, producing progesterone to maintain the uterine lining for potential implantation, as discussed in the study by 3. These phases are regulated by complex hormonal interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries, with estrogen and progesterone playing key roles in the cycle's progression and associated physical changes, including changes in skin physiology, as highlighted in the study by 4. The study by 1 provides a detailed explanation of the endocrinology of the menstrual cycle, including the role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in regulating the cycle. Additionally, the study by 4 provides insight into the physiological changes in women's skin during the menstrual cycle, including changes in skin elasticity, hydration, temperature, blood flow, and sweating. Overall, understanding the phases of the menstrual cycle and the hormonal interactions that regulate them is essential for managing women's health and addressing any related issues that may arise.