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18
3
Massi_mtb
03/04/2023
Biology
BIOLOGY - Menstrual Cycle
753
•
3 Apr 2023
•
Understanding the 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle: Hormones and Charts for GCSE Biology
Massi_mtb
@massi_mtb
The Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Overview
The menstrual cycle is a crucial biological process in female reproductive health, typically lasting about 28 days. This cycle is intricately controlled by four primary hormones and consists of several distinct stages, each playing a vital role in preparing the body for potential pregnancy.
Menstrual Cycle Phases and Anatomy
The menstrual cycle involves several key reproductive organs:
- Fallopian tubes
- Uterus
- Ovaries
- Cervix
- Vagina
Vocabulary: The uterus is the organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus during pregnancy.
The 4 Phases of Menstrual Cycle
- Menstruation (Stage 1): This phase marks the beginning of the cycle, lasting approximately 4 to 7 days. During this time, the uterine lining breaks down and is shed through the vagina.
Highlight: Menstruation can often be accompanied by cramps, which are contractions of the uterus as it expels its lining.
-
Follicular Phase (Stage 2): Following menstruation, the uterine lining begins to rebuild. This phase typically lasts from day 4 to day 14 of the cycle.
-
Ovulation (Stage 3): Around day 14, an egg is released from one of the ovaries. This process is known as ovulation.
-
Luteal Phase (Stage 4): The final phase involves maintaining the uterine lining for about 14 days, until around day 28. If a fertilized egg doesn't implant, the lining begins to break down, and the cycle restarts.
Example: If ovulation occurs on day 14 and fertilization doesn't happen, menstruation would typically begin around day 28, marking the start of a new cycle.
Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is regulated by four primary hormones, each playing a specific role:
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):
- Produced in the pituitary gland
- Causes an egg to mature
- Stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen
- Peaks around day 14
Definition: FSH is a gonadotropin that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, preparing them for egg release.
- Estrogen:
- Produced in the ovaries
- Stimulates the uterine lining to grow
- Increases during stage 2 (follicular phase)
- Decreases during stages 3-4
- Inhibits the release of FSH
- Stimulates the release of LH
Highlight: The role of estrogen in menstrual cycle GCSE studies is crucial, as it plays a part in multiple phases and influences other hormones.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH):
- Produced by the pituitary gland
- Stimulates the release of the egg
- Peaks on day 14 (ovulation)
Vocabulary: The LH surge triggers ovulation, releasing the mature egg from the ovary.
- Progesterone:
- Produced in the ovaries
- Maintains the lining of the uterus
- Increases during stage 4 (luteal phase)
- Progesterone levels drop if fertilization doesn't occur, leading to the start of a new cycle
Example: To explain how hormones control the menstrual cycle 6 marks in a GCSE exam, you would need to describe the roles of all four hormones and how they interact throughout the cycle phases.
Understanding the menstrual cycle hormones and functions is essential for GCSE Biology, whether studying with AQA, Edexcel, or other exam boards. This knowledge forms the foundation for comprehending female reproductive health and the intricate balance of hormones that regulate it.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding the 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle: Hormones and Charts for GCSE Biology
Massi_mtb
@massi_mtb
The menstrual cycle is a complex biological process controlled by four key hormones, lasting approximately 28 days. It involves changes in the uterus and ovaries, preparing the body for potential pregnancy. The 4 phases of menstrual cycleinclude menstruation, the... Show more
The Menstrual Cycle: A Comprehensive Overview
The menstrual cycle is a crucial biological process in female reproductive health, typically lasting about 28 days. This cycle is intricately controlled by four primary hormones and consists of several distinct stages, each playing a vital role in preparing the body for potential pregnancy.
Menstrual Cycle Phases and Anatomy
The menstrual cycle involves several key reproductive organs:
- Fallopian tubes
- Uterus
- Ovaries
- Cervix
- Vagina
Vocabulary: The uterus is the organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus during pregnancy.
The 4 Phases of Menstrual Cycle
- Menstruation (Stage 1): This phase marks the beginning of the cycle, lasting approximately 4 to 7 days. During this time, the uterine lining breaks down and is shed through the vagina.
Highlight: Menstruation can often be accompanied by cramps, which are contractions of the uterus as it expels its lining.
-
Follicular Phase (Stage 2): Following menstruation, the uterine lining begins to rebuild. This phase typically lasts from day 4 to day 14 of the cycle.
-
Ovulation (Stage 3): Around day 14, an egg is released from one of the ovaries. This process is known as ovulation.
-
Luteal Phase (Stage 4): The final phase involves maintaining the uterine lining for about 14 days, until around day 28. If a fertilized egg doesn't implant, the lining begins to break down, and the cycle restarts.
Example: If ovulation occurs on day 14 and fertilization doesn't happen, menstruation would typically begin around day 28, marking the start of a new cycle.
Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is regulated by four primary hormones, each playing a specific role:
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):
- Produced in the pituitary gland
- Causes an egg to mature
- Stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen
- Peaks around day 14
Definition: FSH is a gonadotropin that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, preparing them for egg release.
- Estrogen:
- Produced in the ovaries
- Stimulates the uterine lining to grow
- Increases during stage 2 (follicular phase)
- Decreases during stages 3-4
- Inhibits the release of FSH
- Stimulates the release of LH
Highlight: The role of estrogen in menstrual cycle GCSE studies is crucial, as it plays a part in multiple phases and influences other hormones.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH):
- Produced by the pituitary gland
- Stimulates the release of the egg
- Peaks on day 14 (ovulation)
Vocabulary: The LH surge triggers ovulation, releasing the mature egg from the ovary.
- Progesterone:
- Produced in the ovaries
- Maintains the lining of the uterus
- Increases during stage 4 (luteal phase)
- Progesterone levels drop if fertilization doesn't occur, leading to the start of a new cycle
Example: To explain how hormones control the menstrual cycle 6 marks in a GCSE exam, you would need to describe the roles of all four hormones and how they interact throughout the cycle phases.
Understanding the menstrual cycle hormones and functions is essential for GCSE Biology, whether studying with AQA, Edexcel, or other exam boards. This knowledge forms the foundation for comprehending female reproductive health and the intricate balance of hormones that regulate it.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user