Module 3S2 Chemistry of Reproduction

Lesson 2.3.3S2

Lesson 3—Phases of Menstruation

 

Get Focused

 

The beginning of menstruation represents the beginning of a female’s reproductive years.  A female’s first period is called, menarche and is the start of a female’s individual reproductive cycle.  The start of the menstrual cycle is generally considered the pivotal event of puberty for females, and indicates the possibility of the event of fertility. The ability to be fertile means the ability to have offspring, and therefore the ability to help in the continuation of the species.

 

The menstrual cycle varies considerably among females, but on average is regarded to be 28 days in length. The menstrual cycle is controlled by reproductive hormones, whose effects divide the event into two interrelated segments. 

 

Just because a female begins menstruation does not mean that she is limited to doing only certain activities, or that there is a clear and easy path to fertilization. As you have been learning, there are many, many obstacles to fertilization and the birth of a healthy child. 

 

As the fertility doctor from the Fertility Case Study, you have identified that Sarah suffers from dysmenorrhea, and Jane from amenorrhea. To understand their disorder, both women needed to learn more about the structure and function of a healthy, properly functioning reproductive system, which includes a regular menstrual cycle. Understanding ‘normal’ function of the reproductive system then helped them to understand the disorders from which they were suffering, as well as the choice of treatment options that were available to them. 

In addition to menstrual problems, a clear understanding of the menstrual cycle is important to know when fertility can and cannot happen. This understanding is important for both men and women in family planning and prevention of unplanned or unexpected pregnancies.

 

Module 3: Section 2—Lesson 3 Assignment

 

In addition to the lesson work you complete for your course folder you will examine how the pituitary and ovarian hormones control and are controlled by the events of the menstrual cycles for assessment.

Once you have completed all of the learning activities for this lesson, you can complete the online assignment.

Bio30 2.3.3S2 online assignment

** The Self-Check and Try This questions in this lesson are not marked by the teacher; however answering these questions will help you review important information and build key concepts that may be applied in future lessons. You can respond to these mentally, write out your response, or record your answer in any other way that works for you.