Women who are healthy and not pregnant will experience regular menstruation every month.

The hormones that play a role in the menstrual cycle are as follows:

a. _FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)_, produced by the anterior pituitary, functions for follicle development.

b. _LH (luteinizing hormone)_, produced by the anterior pituitary, functions for the maturation of egg cells until ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum.

c. Estrogen, produced by the ovaries, functions to thicken the uterine wall.

d. Progesterone, is a hormone produced by the ovaries.

Hormonal changes in the brain and ovaries play a major role in the menstrual cycle. So factors that disrupt the hormonal balance will disrupt the woman's menstrual cycle.

Meanwhile, for men, reproductive health checks that can be carried out include:

a. Scrotal Ultrasound

This examination uses high frequency sound waves to produce images inside the body. That way, the doctor can confirm if someone is experiencing problems with the testicles and their supporting structures.

b. Transrectal Ultrasound

Examination related to disorders of the reproductive system is carried out using a small stick that has been lubricated, then inserted into the rectum. This can help the doctor to examine the prostate and look for blockages in the tubes that carry semen.

c. Hormone Tests

The next male reproductive health examination is a hormone test. There are hormones produced by the pituitary gland, namely the hormone Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Testosterone which have an important role in sperm formation. If this part is disturbed, infertility may occur.

Author: dr.Kemas Jacob Rahadiyanto,Sp.PK,M.Kes (Pramita Clinical Laboratory Medical Consultant, Branch Jl. KH. Ahmad Dahlan No. 70 Bukit Kecil Palembang)