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