The shortest duration phase, which occurs almost at the middle of the menstrual cycle is

The shortest duration phase, which occurs almost at the middle of the menstrual cycle is ovulatory phase.

The menstrual cycle consists of several phases, including:

• Menstrual Phase: This is the phase during which menstruation occurs and typically lasts 3-7 days.
• Follicular Phase: This phase begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation. It can vary in duration but is usually around 10-14 days. During this phase, follicles in the ovaries mature, and one dominant follicle prepares to release an egg (ovum).
• Ovulatory Phase: The ovulatory phase is a relatively short phase and occurs around the middle of the menstrual cycle, typically lasting only about 24-48 hours. It is when the matured follicle releases the egg (ovulation) into the fallopian tube.
• Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the luteal phase begins. It lasts for about 10-16 days and is relatively consistent in duration. During this phase, the empty follicle (now called the corpus luteum) produces progesterone to prepare the uterine lining for possible implantation of a fertilised egg.