FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Stages of the Menstrual Cycle Days 1-4: Uterine lining is shed

during menstruation

Days 5-13: An egg matures in one of the ovaries and the uterine lining thickens

Days 14-15: The ovary releases the mature egg during ovulation

Days 16-22: The egg travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus and the uterine lining continues to thicken.

Days 23-28: The unfertilized egg enters the uterus.

Menstrual Discomfort Some may experience

abdominal cramps caused by contractions of the uterus.

Women should seek a medical professional for severe cramps and other menstrual problems.

PMS(premenstrual syndrome): This is when women experience discomfort some time before the menstrual period.

Caused by dramatic change in hormone levels.

Ex: Mood swings, headaches, bloating, irritability.

Toxic Shock

A bacterial infection in the vagina and associated with tampon use.

Symptoms: High Fever, rash, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Can lead to death so seek medical help right away if these symptoms are present

Wear lowest possible absorbency for needs and also change tampons frequently.

Help for Menstrual Cramps

Moderate Exercise Warm bath Heating pad Aspirin or Ibuprofen with a doctors

approval

Keeping healthy

Cleanliness- Clean thoroughly especially during menstruation.

Sexual Abstinence Prompt Treatment for infections- Seek

professional care Self-Exams- Check for breast cancer,

symptoms of vaginitis, sores, and unusual pain in the abdomen. Period may regularity and bleeding between periods.

Pap Smear: Sample of cells is taken from the cervix. Can detect cervical cancer.

Mammogram: Starting at age 40, women should get a mammogram which is an x-ray of the breast that can help detect breast cancer. If family history is present mammograms may be conducted before age 40

Ovarian Cysts: Large ones may be painful and need to surgically be removed

Endometriosis: Tissue of the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus into the pelvic cavity