Module 3 Lesson 6 - 1

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The beginning of menstruation represents the beginning of a female's reproductive years.  A female's first period indicates 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.

The menstrual cycle varies considerably among females, but on average is 28 days in length. The menstrual cycle is controlled by reproductive hormones, whose effects divide the event into two interrelated segments: ovarian cycle and uterine cycle. We will be focusing on the uterine cycle in this lesson.

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.