Puberty and the menstrual cycle

What is puberty?

Puberty is the period of physical and hormonal changes that lead to sexual maturity.

What triggers puberty?

Puberty is triggered by the release of hormones from the brain (hypothalamus and pituitary gland).

What is puberty?

Puberty is the period of physical and hormonal changes that lead to sexual maturity.

What triggers puberty?

Puberty is triggered by the release of hormones from the brain (hypothalamus and pituitary gland).

What are the main physical changes during puberty for girls?

Growth of breasts, wider hips, menstruation, and pubic hair growth.

What are the main physical changes during puberty for boys?

Growth of facial and body hair, voice deepening, increased muscle mass, and enlargement of the testes.

What hormones are involved in puberty?

Estrogen and progesterone (for girls) and testosterone (for boys) are the key hormones.

What is menarche?

The first menstruation, marking the onset of a female’s menstrual cycle.

What is the menstrual cycle?

A monthly cycle of hormonal changes that prepares the body for pregnancy.

What are the stages of the menstrual cycle?

The menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase.

What happens during ovulation?

An egg is released from the ovary, making it available for fertilization.

How long is the average menstrual cycle?

The average cycle is about 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days.

What is the role of progesterone in the menstrual cycle?

Progesterone helps maintain the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy.

What is the role of estrogen in the menstrual cycle?

Estrogen helps rebuild the uterine lining after menstruation and supports ovulation.

What causes the shedding of the uterine lining?

If pregnancy does not occur, the levels of progesterone drop, leading to the shedding of the lining.

What are common menstrual disorders?

Conditions like dysmenorrhea (painful periods), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and irregular cycles.

What is menopause?

The natural cessation of menstruation, usually around age 50, marking the end of reproductive years.