Final answer:
The shedding of the hemorrhagic functional endometrial layer is characteristic of the menses phase of the menstrual cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The shedding of the hemorrhagic functional endometrial layer is characteristic of the menses phase of the menstrual cycle.
During this phase, which lasts approximately 2-7 days, the stratum functionalis of the endometrium is shed, resulting in menstrual bleeding. The shedding is triggered by a decline in progesterone levels, which marks the end of the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle.