Ovulation and Menstruation

Oocyte

A female gamete or egg cell that cannot move on its own due to the lack of flagella.

Fallopian Tube

The tube through which the oocyte moves towards the uterus, assisted by smooth muscle contractions and cilia.

Estrogen

A hormone that induces contractions in the fallopian tube during ovulation.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that line the fallopian tube and help in moving the oocyte towards the uterus.

Menstrual Cycle

A monthly cycle that lasts about 28 days, involving changes in the endometrium due to sex hormone secretion.

Menstrual phase

The phase of the menstrual cycle characterized by low hormone levels and the shedding of the endometrial lining.

Proliferative phase

The phase following menstruation where the endometrium thickens and prepares for ovulation.

Ovulation

The release of an oocyte from the ovary, marking the end of the proliferative phase.

Secretory phase

The phase where the endometrial lining is prepared for a fertilized egg; if no pregnancy occurs, it will shed.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus that undergoes cyclical changes in response to hormonal fluctuations.