An introduction to the physiology and psychology of sex / by S. Herbert.

  • Herbert, S. (Solomon), 1874-
Date:
1918
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: An introduction to the physiology and psychology of sex / by S. Herbert. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    retrograde change, and forms the corpus luteum (2.e., yellow body, on account of its colour). A fresh corpus luteum is always a sign of a newly discharged ovum. Menstruation. Menstruation is the periodical flow of blood from the female genital organs. It is also called the menses (months), the monthly period, or, shortly, period. It is preceded by a heightened turgescence of the genital tract and an increased secretion of mucus from the vagina. The menstrual cycle recurs about every four weeks, but may vary within wide limits from two to six weeks, or may change in the same person without any sign of ill-health. The flow lasts, as a rule, from three to six days. It generally commences slowly the first day, reaches its height on the second or third day, and then gradually ceases. The amount of blood lost is on the average about 3 ounces. Menstruation first occurs at puberty, between the fourteenth and sixteenth year; but it appears earlier in hot and Eastern climates. The age also varies according to race. Rich living, mental stimu- lation and premature sexual experience tend to hasten the advent of the period; while feeble health and poor diet have the contrary effect. The menstrual blood comes from the uterus. The mucous membrane of the uterus swells up and becomes congested with blocd. The small bloodvessels break down under the pressure, and the blood escapes into the uterine cavity, and thence into the vagina. According to some authorities, blood also passes through the undamaged walls of the congested bloodvessels. The hemorrhage involves a partial destruction of the uterine lining, which varies considerably in extent in different cases. In some cases the mucous membrane is cast off to such a