MCN NORMALS

MECHANISM OF MENSTRUATION

- Ushered by menarche and ends with menopause

A. Definition of Terms:
 Menstrual Cycle
 Periodic uterine bleeding in response to cyclic hormonal changes
 Menarche
 Refers to the first menstrual period
 Age usually is at 12-13
 Menopause
 Cessation of menstrual cycle
 Characteristics of Normal Menstruation Period
 Menarche – average onset 12-13 years
 Interval between cycles – average 28 days
 Cycles 23-35 days
 Duration – average 2-7 days; range 1-9 days
 Amount – average 20-80 ml; heavy bleeding saturates pad in <1 hour
 Color – dark red; with blood; mucus; and endometrial cells
 Menstrual Cycle
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Chromosomal, genetic problem in ovaries, hormonal issues, structural problem

Oligo- pcos, failure of uterine lining on proliferative phase

Poly- endometriosis, smoking

Metrotthagia – irregular bleeding; pregnancy, use of contraceptives