Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a monthly set of changes in the uterine endometrium, especially its functional layer called the stratum functionalis. It prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy. In most cases, the cycle lasts about 21 to 35 days and averages 28 days. It also matches the ovarian cycle and is controlled by changing...

The menstrual cycle is a sequence of monthly changes in the endometrium.

The menstrual cycle may last between 21 and 38 days and is typically divided into the menstrual phase lasting days 1 to 5, the proliferative phase lasting days 6 to 14, and the secretory phase lasting days 15 to 28.

In the menstrual phase, triggered by the dec...