Menstrual physiology
The menstrual cycle reflects coordinated hypothalamic, pituitary and ovarian hormone changes affecting follicular development and the endometrium.
Open interactive lesson & self-check ↗Menstrual physiology — learning map
Original conceptual SVG · scalableOriginal schematic relationship map for this topic; relationships are organized for study, not intended as an anatomical depiction or a diagnostic algorithm.
Follicular phase
FSH helps support ovarian follicle development; growing follicles produce estradiol, which stimulates endometrial proliferation.
Ovulation
Sustained high estradiol near midcycle can trigger an LH surge that promotes follicular rupture and oocyte release.
Luteal phase
The corpus luteum produces progesterone, promoting a secretory endometrium in preparation for possible implantation.
Menstrual bleeding
Without an established pregnancy, luteal regression reduces progesterone and estrogen support and contributes to endometrial shedding.
Reference and next reading
Explore the original curriculum and publisher-hosted resources for full-depth reading; this note is an original schematic introduction, not an exhaustive chapter.