Definition

1. Noun:
   • A recurring physiological process in females of reproductive age: The "menstrual cycle" is a natural, approximately monthly cycle that prepares the body for a potential pregnancy. It involves a complex series of hormonal changes and physical events in the ovaries and uterus, beginning with the first period (menarche) and ending with the cessation of periods (menopause).

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Understanding her menstrual cycle helped her track her fertility.
  • Stress can sometimes disrupt a regular menstrual cycle.
  • The doctor explained the different phases of the menstrual cycle.

Advanced Usage

• "to regulate the menstrual cycle": Refers to medical or lifestyle interventions aimed at making the cycle more regular or predictable.
  • Hormonal birth control is often used to regulate the menstrual cycle.
• "length/duration of the menstrual cycle": Refers to the number of days from the start of one period to the start of the next.
  • The length of a menstrual cycle can vary from person to person.

Variants and Related Words

• Menstrual (adj): Relating to the menses or menstruation.
  • Menstrual cramps are a common symptom.
• Menstruation (n): The periodic discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterus, occurring approximately monthly in non-pregnant women; a period.
  • Menstruation is one phase of the menstrual cycle.
• Cycle (n): A series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
  • The sleep-wake cycle is another important biological rhythm.

Synonyms

• Monthly cycle: A common informal synonym.
• Reproductive cycle: A more general biological term that can encompass the menstrual cycle.

Related Phrases

• Phases of the menstrual cycle: Refers to its distinct stages, commonly the menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases.
  • She studied the hormonal changes during the different phases of the menstrual cycle.

Noun

1. a recurring cycle (beginning at menarche and ending at menopause) in which the endometrial lining of the uterus prepares for pregnancy; if pregnancy does not occur the lining is shed at menstruation
   • the average menstrual cycle is 28 days