How do Hormonal Fluctuations Affect the Menstrual Cycle?
During the menstrual cycle, levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone rise and fall in a predictable pattern. The cycle is divided into phases: the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. In the follicular phase, estrogen levels rise, leading to the thickening of the uterine lining. Ovulation occurs mid-cycle, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH). In the luteal phase, progesterone levels increase to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, hormone levels drop, leading to menstruation.
