Understanding Your Body
Welcome to the mini guide on women's health, covering the basics about the menstrual cycle and reproductive health. Discover the phases of the menstrual cycle and what to expect, along with hormonal health and common health issues. We’ll also address STD/STI prevention and birth control options. Let us empower ourselves through knowledge!
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At around age 12, during puberty, one begins their menstrual period. This is when a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries, in preparation for fertilization (to become pregnant). If one does not become pregnant, they will then shed the lining of their uterus, during what we call menstruation. An average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. It begins on the first day of one period and ends on the first day of the next period. Click the title to learn more about the menstrual phases!
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The main glands in a female that produce sex hormones are the ovaries, the adrenal glands, and the fat cells. Below are the hormones produced in a female and some of their main functions.
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Estrogen: During puberty, it causes breast development, growth of pubic and underarm hair, and the start of menstrual cycles. Also helps to keep cholesterol in control, contributes to protecting bone health and affects your brain, heart, and skin.
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Progesterone: Encourages the uterus lining to accept a fertilized egg while prohibiting uterine muscle contractions that may cause the body to reject an egg. If a woman does not become pregnant, the progesterone levels decrease in the body, causing the woman to menstruate. If the woman becomes pregnant, progesterone continues to stimulate blood vessels that will nourish and support the growing baby.
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Testosterone: Affects a woman’s fertility, sexual desire, menstruation, tissue and bone mass, and red blood cell production.
Different hormonal pills– estrogen and progestin pills or progestin-only pills– work to stop ovulation. Click the header to learn more!
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This section looks into a few common reproductive health issues that women face including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, fibroids, STDs, and STIs.
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Menopause is the point at which a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. This section also discusses perimenopause, postmenopause, and support during these phases.
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Ready to learn more? Click the title for books, websites, videos, and podcasts that offer information on various reproductive health topics.