Reproductive System

The menstrual cycle is regulated by the complex interactions of hormones produced in

the hypothalamus, pituitary and ovary. FSH released from the pituitary stimulates the
ovarian follicles to begin maturation and growth. Follicles are sac-like structures in the
ovary containing eggs. As the follicle and egg develops, cells within the follicle produce
estrogen. Follicle cells produce another hormone called inhibin that circulates back to
the hypothalamus and pituitary to decrease the release of FSH.

The production of estrogen continues to rise under the influence of FSH as the follicle
matures and increases in size. When the follicle is mature, maximum production of
estrogen occurs and this signals a rapid rise in LH from the pituitary gland.

LH, along with the estrogen produced by the ovaries, helps in the maturation process of
the egg. LH also triggers ovulation – the release of a mature egg from one of the
follicles in the ovary. After ovulation, the follicle turns into a different structure, the
corpus luteum, which produces progesterone.

Progesterone acts on the uterine lining (endometrium) causing it to thicken in

preparation for implantation. Progesterone is essential for implantation and pregnancy.
If implantation does not occur, the thickened endometrium will break down and be lost
with menstrual bleeding.

The function of your external genitals are to protect the internal parts from infection and
allow sperm to enter your vagina.

Your vulva is the collective name for all your external genitals. A lot of people
mistakenly use the term “vagina” to describe all female reproductive parts. However,
your vagina is its own structure located inside your body.

Women or people AFAB of reproductive age (beginning anywhere from 11 to 16 years of

age) experience cycles of hormonal activity that repeat at about one-month intervals.
With every cycle, your body prepares for a potential pregnancy, whether or not that’s
your intention. The term menstruation refers to the periodic shedding of your uterine
lining when pregnancy doesn’t occur that cycle. Many people call the days that they
notice vaginal bleeding their “period.”