Your periods will come as a result of your uterine lining shedding. Here’s a detailed look at the process:
The Menstrual Cycle and Periods
The menstrual cycle is a recurring process involving the preparation of the uterus for a potential pregnancy. When pregnancy doesn’t occur, the cycle concludes with menstruation or a period.
Steps Leading to Your Period
- Ovulation: An egg is released from one of your ovaries.
- Travel Through Fallopian Tube: The egg travels through a thin tube called a fallopian tube to the uterus.
- Uterine Lining Thickens: During the cycle, the lining of your uterus thickens, preparing to nourish a fertilized egg.
- Fertilization (If It Happens): If a sperm fertilizes the egg, it attaches to the uterine wall and develops into a baby.
- No Fertilization: If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus lining breaks down and bleeds, causing a period.
The Bleeding Phase
- Shedding the Lining: The thickened uterine lining, along with some blood, is shed from the body.
- Menstrual Flow: This shedding results in menstrual flow, which is commonly known as your period.
- Duration: A period typically lasts for a few days, but it can vary from person to person.
- Start of New Cycle: Once your period ends, the whole cycle starts again with a new egg maturing.
Summary Table
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Ovulation | Egg released from ovary |
| Fallopian Tube Transport | Egg travels to uterus |
| Uterine Lining Thickens | Uterus prepares for a fertilized egg |
| Fertilization? | If egg is fertilized, it attaches to uterine wall; otherwise, cycle continues |
| Menstruation | Uterine lining breaks down and bleeds; this is your period |
Understanding the Process
To put it simply, if your egg isn't fertilized by sperm, your body gets rid of the uterine lining through a period. This is a natural and cyclical process.
