What happens before menstruation is a natural part of the female reproductive cycle, and understanding the process can help women better manage their health and symptoms. Menstruation, also known as a period, is the shedding of the uterine lining that occurs approximately every 28 days in women of reproductive age. Before this shedding takes place, several physiological changes occur in the body.
One of the first signs of impending menstruation is the thickening of the uterine lining, known as the endometrium. This lining is rich in blood vessels and glands, preparing to nourish a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the lining breaks down and is shed during menstruation. In the weeks leading up to menstruation, the hormone estrogen, which is responsible for the growth of the endometrium, begins to decline.
As estrogen levels drop, the hormone progesterone, which helps maintain the uterine lining, also decreases. This decline in both hormones triggers the shedding of the endometrium. In the days before menstruation, women may experience various symptoms, such as mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue. These symptoms are often referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and can vary in intensity from woman to woman.
One of the most noticeable changes before menstruation is the increase in cervical mucus. This mucus is thicker and more slippery, helping to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus during the fertile window. The cervix also begins to lower and open slightly, making it easier for sperm to enter the uterus. This change is known as cervical ripening and is a natural part of the reproductive process.
Another important change before menstruation is the rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. LH is responsible for triggering ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of menstruation. If the egg is fertilized, it will implant in the uterine lining, and the body will continue to produce progesterone to support the pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation.
Understanding what happens before menstruation can help women identify their fertile window and plan for conception or contraception. It can also help them recognize the signs of PMS and take steps to alleviate symptoms. By being aware of the changes that occur in the body, women can take better care of their reproductive health and overall well-being.
