Which term describes the monthly cycle of changes that occur in a woman's body related to reproduction?

The term that describes the monthly cycle of changes that occur in a woman's body related to reproduction is menstruation. Menstruation refers to the shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur following ovulation. This cycle is a key aspect of female reproductive health, as it involves a series of hormonal changes that prepare the body for potential pregnancy.

During the menstrual cycle, various phases occur, including the follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation itself. It typically lasts about 28 days but can vary among individuals. Understanding menstruation is crucial, as it is a fundamental part of female reproductive physiology and affects overall health and well-being.

Other terms in this context relate to different aspects of reproduction: ovulation refers specifically to the release of an egg from the ovaries; gestation pertains to the period of development of a fetus in the womb; and fertilization is the process of sperm meeting the egg to form a zygote. Thus, menstruation is the most fitting choice for the overarching monthly reproductive cycle.