NORMAL PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Keywords:
menstrual cycle, physiology, pathologyAbstract
The menstrual cycle is a highly regulated physiological process essential for female reproductive health. It is governed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis and involves cyclical hormonal changes that prepare the endometrium for potential pregnancy. Disruptions in this cycle can lead to a variety of pathological conditions, including amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and endocrine disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This article reviews both the normal physiology and pathological alterations of the menstrual cycle, highlighting their mechanisms, clinical implications, and management strategies.
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