Menstrual Cycle
By: Avery Wood
Definition & Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the woman but some common ones are:
- Acne
- Tender Breasts
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Joint or muscle pain
- Cramps
- Appetite changes
- Mood Swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
4 Stages of the Menstrual Cycle
Ovulation Stage- When estrogen reaches a high level in the blood stream, FSH production is stopped. A hormonal combination causes the mature egg to release from the ovaries during ovulation.
Luteal Stage- LH causes the follicle to divide quickly. The mass of cells then puts off the pregnancy hormone which causes the thickening if the Uterine wall to continue in cause the egg is fertilized and the pregnancy could be viable.
Menstruation Stage- The pregnancy hormone production is stopped if the egg isn't fertilized causing the Uterine wall to become thin again. The unfertilized egg, layers of the endometrium, and blood is discharged through the vagina.
Amenorrhea
Causes: Pregnancy, Breast-Feeding, Menopause, Side effect of medications, or sign or a medical problem.
Symptoms:
- Breast size changes
- Weight gain or loss
- Ance
- Increased hair growth
- Vaginal dryness
- Voice Changes
Premenstrual Syndrome
Causes: Changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle are the cause of these symptoms.
Symptoms:
- Pain in the Breasts
- Muscle and Joint aches
- Appetite changes
- Excessive Hunger
- Anxiety
- Acne
- Headache
- Moddiness
Dysmenorrhea
Causes: Over production or under production of hormones.
Symptoms: The main symptom is pain. Sharp pains in the abdomen. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, light headedness, or general aches.
Menopause
Causes: The ovaries stop producing hormones form age 40-50.
Symptoms: Fatigue, sweating, hot flashes, insomnia, absence of menstruation.