To give the woman the opportunity to become pregnant during the fertile period, the woman must have menstruation. Due to the influence of menstrual hormones, the uterine lining is replaced, so that a new chance of pregnancy is realized every 27 days. Which hormones control menstruation and related bodily functions?

Menstrual hormones

• Period as a sign of fertility
• The development of the egg
• Influence of progesterone
• Influence body temperature
• Menstrual hormones and period

Period as a sign of fertility

The menstrual period in women returns every month. Menstruation occurs in sexually mature women and is a sign that reproductive potential exists. In a period of 27 days, the uterine lining tissue is prepared to receive a fertilized egg, so that it can implant and a baby can grow in the abdomen. If this does not happen, the endometrium will be replaced with a new mucous membrane after that period. This means that the old mucous membrane must disappear and so menstruation occurs in the form of monthly bleeding. Menstruation is controlled by hormones produced by the pituitary gland. Which menstrual hormones apply?

The development of the egg

An adequate production of lutein and egg production stimulating hormone is essential in the development of the egg. A follicle is formed in the ovary, the birthplace of the egg, after which hormones ensure that the egg ovulates. Estrogen and progesterone (ovarian hormones) ensure that the egg is collected in the most favorable conditions. These hormones are also transported throughout the body. An important function of estrogen is to repair the uterine lining after menstruation, so that the uterine lining is ready for 27 days to receive a possible fertilized egg. In addition, estrogen ensures that a woman has feminine characteristics. It promotes the growth of breasts and mucous glands in the vagina.

Influence of progesterone

During pregnancy, progesterone is a very important hormone. It ensures that once the egg is fertilized and implanted, the egg is nourished. In addition, progesterone ensures that the uterine muscle remains loose, so that the egg has a chance to grow. The increasing amount of progesterone ensures that the influence of estrogen decreases. If the woman has a limited amount of progesterone production, the breasts may feel painful or sensitive.

Influence body temperature

Progesterone is secreted by the body from the moment ovulation occurs. Because progesterone is released, the body temperature increases by half a degree during the period. If you continuously monitor your body temperature, you can see exactly when ovulation has occurred. So you, as a woman, know exactly when the best chance is to become pregnant. Usually the temperature increase lasts for as long as the period lasts, i.e. for 27 days. Then menstruation starts.

Menstrual hormones and period

During menstruation, progesterone levels drop sharply, meaning that the uterine lining is no longer repaired. This means that the uterine lining is removed. This causes the woman to bleed and menstruate. Normally the first menstruation will occur before the age of 15. Yet there are cases where it already occurs at the age of 10 or 11. If menstruation is late or if menstruation has not started before the age of 16, it is time to inform your GP. There may be something going on.

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