This first episode will be the first of two episodes discussing the menstrual cycle.

This episode serves to lay the foundation for all the topics we will discuss in the future. In this episode we will discuss the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle, the events which occur and the phases of the cycle. Below, I have left some key points and terminology which might come in handy when listening to this episode.

Key terms and hormones:

1) Endometrium - The uterine lining

2) Ovulation - The release of an egg from the ovary

3) GnRH - Gonadotropin releasing hormone

4) LH - Luteinizing hormone

5) FSH - Follicule stimulating hormone

6) Oestrogen

7) Progesterone

Key points to remember:

1) All timelines are based on the assumption of an average cycle of 28 days. The science still applies to cycles shorter or longer than 28 days, but the timeline would be different.

2) Ovulation occurs half way through the cycle

3) The menstrual cycle is separated into 2 phases, the follicular phase and the luteal phase (separated by ovulation).

4) Menstruation refers to the the shedding of the uterine lining associated with bleeding.