The correct spelling of the phrase "Follicular Phase Menstruations" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. It is pronounced as /fəˈlɪkjʊlər feɪz ˌmɛnstruˈeɪʃənz/. The word "follicular" is spelled with a double "l" and "c" to indicate the "kuh" sound, while "menstruations" is spelled with a "t" instead of a "c" to indicate the "sh" sound. This refers to the first part of the menstrual cycle, during which the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) causes the ovaries to produce a follicle, ultimately leading to ovulation.
The follicular phase of the menstrual cycle is the first phase, characterized by the development and maturation of follicles in the ovaries. It typically begins on the first day of menstruation when the uterine lining is shed, and lasts until ovulation occurs.
During this phase, the hypothalamus in the brain releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn stimulates the pituitary gland to produce follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH then prompts several follicles in the ovaries to start developing. As the follicles grow, they produce estrogen, which thickens the uterine lining in preparation for potential pregnancy.
As the follicular phase progresses, usually one follicle becomes dominant and continues to grow while the others degenerate. The dominant follicle produces increasing amounts of estrogen, which reaches a peak just before ovulation. This high level of estrogen triggers a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, leading to the release of the mature egg from the ovary.
The length of the follicular phase can vary from woman to woman and cycle to cycle but typically lasts around 14 days. It marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle and is an essential phase for the proper functioning of the female reproductive system. Understanding the follicular phase is crucial for fertility and contraception management, as it provides insights into the timing of ovulation and the most fertile period for conception.