1.6 E The Process of Menstruation inside the body :

Menstruation is triggered by a small gland located in the base of the brain, called the PITUITARY GLAND, which produces HORMONES (chemicals that act like messengers, traveling in the blood to the ovaries). Inside the body, the reproductive system begins to function.

During each monthly cycle, one of the ovaries releases an egg cell (Ova), which is smaller than a grain of mustard. It enters the nearby fallopian tube and travels toward the uterus that has a special lining of blood and tissue, called the ENDOMETRIUM.

If the ova does not get fertilized every month in the absence of male sperm and the lining & ova get dissolved and finally flow out of the uterus, through the cervix and through the vagina and out of the vaginal opening, called the MENSTRUAL FLOW. When the lining is completely removed from the uterus, the flow stops.

The menstrual flow feels wet and may appear like a thin or thick fluid. The colour may be pink, brownish or red. Often girls report a light discharge on the first day, then a heavier flow, then lighter flow at the end. Sometimes girls experience a heavier flow, while for others the flow is quite light. Generally, the flow reduces after the first two or three days. Menstrual flow is not only made up of blood but also fluids and tissues. New blood is constantly being produced in the body. However, if your period lasts more than a week or it is always heavy and contains large clots, then inform your parents. The no. of days when the menstrual flow is leaving the uterus are called the PERIOD, which usually lasts from 4 to 5 days. It usually occurs once a month, except during pregnancy. The length of each menstrual period & the amount of menstrual flow varies from girl to girl.