Read the Menstrual Cycle by Hormone and Phase
Track ovarian events and uterine changes together. The fall in ovarian hormones links the end of one cycle to the next.
Living-system questions are solved by matching a structure or organism to its function, process and stated condition.
Match phase with event
During the follicular phase, follicles develop and the endometrium proliferates. Ovulation follows the LH surge. After ovulation, the corpus luteum secretes progesterone and supports a thickened endometrium through the roughly 14-day luteal phase.
Understand menstruation and estrous cycles
If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, progesterone falls and the endometrium is shed as menstruation. In most estrous-cycle mammals, the endometrium is reabsorbed if pregnancy does not occur. The egg is not literally lost with the menstrual flow; the flow is chiefly shed uterine lining and blood.
Connect ovarian structures to cycle hormones
The late follicle contains the secondary oocyte after the LH surge initiates meiosis I completion. Ovulation follows the LH surge; the corpus luteum then secretes progesterone and estrogen. Developing granulosa cells also produce estrogen and inhibin.
OlympIQ exam lens
- ✓Follicular: follicle development and endometrial proliferation.
- ✓Ovulation: LH surge.
- ✓Luteal: corpus luteum and progesterone.
- ✓Progesterone decline helps initiate menstruation.
- ✓Estrous cycles generally reabsorb the lining rather than menstruate.
- ✓LH surge, not FSH surge alone, triggers ovulation.
- ✓Corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland producing progesterone and estrogen.
- ✓Granulosa cells contribute estrogen and inhibin.
Do not call the oocyte the menstrual tissue. The uterine endometrium is what sheds.
Ready to try the pattern?
100% coverage across the 5 linked questions.
Practise 5 linked questions