REGULATION OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND FUNCTIONAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS: INTEGRATING OVARIAN, UTERINE AND ENDOCRINE SIGNALS

Background: Menstrual-cycle regulation is a core topic in gynecology because irregularity, pain andabnormal bleeding often reveal endocrine or structural disease. Objective: This article reviews thehypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, ovarian and uterine cycles, and functional diagnostic tests.Methods: International epidemiological sources and clinical review evidence were synthesized in anIMRAD format. Results: The menstrual cycle reflects coordinated follicular development, ovulation,luteal function and endometrial transformation; basal temperature, ultrasound folliculometry,hormonal assays and ovulation tests provide complementary information. Discussion: Functionaltests are useful only when interpreted with history and clinical context. Conclusion: Cycleassessment should move beyond calendar counting toward integrated endocrine and endometrialreasoning.