Question

Which of the following is NOT a phase of menstruation? A. Destructive B. Secretory C. Gestational D. Proliferative

Short answer

C. Gestational

Step-by-step solution

Understand the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is a monthly process that prepares the female body for pregnancy. It has several phases, including the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, the ovulatory phase, and the luteal phase.

Identify the phases of menstruation

The four main phases of the menstrual cycle include: 1) Menstrual/Destructive phase, 2) Follicular/Proliferative phase, 3) Ovulatory phase, 4) Luteal/Secretory phase.

Analyze the options

Compare each given option with the known phases of the menstrual cycle: A. Destructive (yes, Menstrual phase); B. Secretory (yes, Luteal phase); C. Gestational (not a phase of menstruation); D. Proliferative (yes, Follicular phase).

Choose the correct answer

The term 'Gestational' does not correspond to any phase of the menstrual cycle. It refers to pregnancy, not a phase within the menstrual cycle.

Key concepts

menstrual phase

The menstrual phase marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle. This phase starts on the first day of your period and typically lasts 3-7 days. During this time, the uterus sheds its lining because pregnancy did not occur. You may experience symptoms like cramps, bloating, and mood changes.

Key points to remember:

• It marks the beginning of your menstrual cycle.
• Typically lasts 3-7 days.
• The uterine lining is shed during this phase.
• Common symptoms include cramps and bloating.

follicular phase

The follicular phase starts right after the menstrual phase and lasts until ovulation. It is named for the growth of follicles in the ovaries. Under the influence of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a few follicles begin to develop. One of these follicles will mature into an egg to be released during ovulation.

Key points to remember:

• Begins after the menstrual phase.
• Continues until ovulation.
• Involves the growth of follicles in the ovaries.
• One follicle will mature into an egg.

ovulatory phase

The ovulatory phase is when ovulation occurs, typically around the middle of the menstrual cycle. During this phase, the matured egg is released from the ovary and is ready to be fertilized by sperm. The luteinizing hormone (LH) surges to trigger ovulation. This phase is crucial for fertility.

Key points to remember:

• Marks the release of a matured egg from the ovary.
• Triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH).
• Occurs roughly in the middle of the menstrual cycle.
• Crucial for the possibility of pregnancy.

luteal phase

The luteal phase occurs after ovulation and before the start of menstruation. During this phase, the ruptured follicle forms a corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone to thicken the uterine lining. This prepares the lining for a possible pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum disintegrates, and menstruation begins.

Key points to remember:

• Occurs after ovulation and before menstruation.
• The corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone.
• Prepares the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.
• Disintegrates if fertilization does not occur.