The menstrual cycle is a natural process that occurs in the bodies of people with uteruses, typically every month. It involves a series of hormonal changes that prepare the body for a potential pregnancy. The cycle usually lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. During this time, the ovaries release an egg, and the uterine lining thickens to support a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the body sheds the thickened lining, resulting in menstruation, which is the bleeding that many people experience. This process is a sign of reproductive health and is an essential part of the female reproductive system.