Key Stage 3
Meaning
The menstrual cycle is the changes that happen to the female reproductive system every 28 days.
About the Menstrual Cycle
- The menstrual cycle in humans repeats every month.
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In the first 6 days of the menstrual cycle the uterine wall leaves through the vagina. This is often called a 'period'.
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On day 7 an ovum begins to mature and the uterine wall starts to build back up again.
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The uterine wall continues to build up.
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The uterine wall continues to build up.
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The uterine wall continues to build up.
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The ovum is released from the ovary.
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The ovum travels down the oviduct.
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If the ovum is not fertilised the uterine wall breaks down.
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A graph showing the relative thickness of the uterine wall through the 28 days of the menstrual cycle.
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Key Stage 4
Meaning
The menstrual cycle is a regular change in the organs of the female reproductive system that include ovulation and menstruation (periods).
About the Menstrual Cycle
- The menstrual cycle is controlled by the hormones; oestrogen, progesterone, luteinising hormone and follicle stimulating hormone.
References
Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle, page 54, GCSE Combined Science; The Revision Guide, CGP, Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle, page 79, GCSE Biology; The Revision Guide, CGP, Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle, pages 102-103, GCSE Combined Science, Pearson Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle, pages 146-147, GCSE Biology, Pearson, Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle, pages 229-231, GCSE Biology, CGP, Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle; hormonal control, pages 104-105, GCSE Combined Science, Pearson Edexcel
- Menstrual cycle; hormonal control, pages 148-149, GCSE Biology, Pearson, Edexcel