A period, or menstruation, occurs because of hormonal changes in the body.
Understanding Menstruation
The menstrual cycle is a complex process governed by hormones. Here's a breakdown:
Hormonal Changes
- Hormones act as messengers: These chemical messengers trigger changes in the body.
- Uterine Lining Build-Up: Hormones cause the lining of the uterus (or womb) to thicken. This lining is called the endometrium.
- Preparation for Pregnancy: This build-up prepares the uterus for a fertilized egg (from the mother) and sperm (from the father).
The Period
- No Fertilization: When an egg is not fertilized, the body does not need the thickened uterine lining.
- Shedding of the Lining: The built-up lining is then shed.
- Menstrual Flow: The shedding of this lining is what causes menstrual bleeding, commonly known as a period.
Summary
In short, little girls have periods because changes in hormones signal the uterus to prepare for a potential pregnancy. When pregnancy doesn't occur, the lining of the uterus is shed, leading to menstruation. This is a normal and natural part of a female's reproductive development.
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Hormones | Chemical messengers that trigger changes in the body. |
| Uterine Lining | The inner lining of the uterus that thickens in preparation for pregnancy. |
| Period | The shedding of the uterine lining when a fertilized egg doesn’t implant. |
