Write an essay on Menstrual cycle.

The menstrual cycle is a reproductive cycle that takes place in the females of the group of primates. The menstrual cycle is divided into four phases: Menstrual phase: It extends from the 1st to the 4th day of the cycle. It occurs in the absence of fertilisation. During this phase, bleeding occurs as the endometrium of the uterus is sloughed off. The menstrual flow consists of secretion of endometrial glands, cell debris, unfertilized ovum. After the 4th day, once again the FSH secretion from the pituitary is resumed and the new follicle starts developing. Follicular phase: When the ovary is in this phase, the uterus enters the proliferative phase. This takes place from the 5th to the 13th day of the cycle. During this phase new primordial follicle in the ovary develops due to the action of FSH from the pituitary. It gradually changes into the Graafian follicle and the production of estrogen starts. Only one follicle develops in one cycle. Corresponding to the changes in the ovary, the uterus also undergoes proliferation. Endometrial glands, stimulated by estrogen repair the uterus. Ovulatory phase: During this phase, ovulation takes place. It usually occurs on the 14th day. Mature Graafian follicle ruptures due to LH secretion by the pituitary. Graafian follicle bursts and releases the ovum. This ovum along with the follicular fluid is picked up by the fimbriae of the infundibulum of the fallopian tube. It passes through the fallopian tube, where, if it happens to meet a sperm, it is fertilised. If not fertilised, the ovum degenerates. Luteal phase: It corresponds with the secretory phase in the uterus. It takes place between the 15th to 28th day of the cycle. Ovarian changes: In the ovary, the corpus luteum is formed from an empty Graafian follicle. Progesterone is secreted now. If the ovum is fertilised, the corpus luteum is retained. LH from the pituitary help in the maintenance of the corpus luteum. If the ovum is not fertilised, corpus luteum degenerates and forms Corpus Albicans. Uterine changes: Under the influence of progesterone, there is an increase in the thickness of the endometrium. Endometrial glands grow and become secretory. Progesterone is responsible for the maintenance of pregnancy. When a fertilised ovum reaches the uterus, it is implanted and the placenta is formed. Till the placenta becomes functional corpus luteum keeps on producing progesterone. But when the progesterone source is cut off, the endometrium sheds off and menstruation begins.