What is menstruation?

Menstruation refers specifically to the monthly process in which the uterine lining is shed when no pregnancy occurs. This occurs as part of the menstrual cycle, which is regulated by hormonal changes in the body. During the cycle, the lining of the uterus thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not take place, hormonal levels drop, leading to the shedding of this lining through the vagina. This shedding is what constitutes menstruation, and it typically lasts a few days. Understanding this process is essential for comprehending broader concepts related to reproductive health and the menstrual cycle, which includes various hormonal dynamics that occur prior to and during menstruation.