Endocrine Control of Menstrual Cycle

Question 1

What occurs at the beginning of the menstrual cycle? What is this named?

Answer 1

At the beginning of the cycle the superficial layer of the endometrium sheds and this is called menstruation.

Question 2

The second stage of the menstrual cycle is called the follicular phase. What occurs in this phase?

Answer 2

In this phase the endometrium regenerates as well the development of follicles mainly the graafian follicle.

Question 3

What occurs in the proliferative phase?

Answer 3

In this phase the endometrium is more thicker and vascular, aswell as the secretion of cervical mucus to aid the entry of sperm. Mid cycle LH surges causes the rupture of the GF causing ovulation this phase occurs due to oestrogen.

Question 4

What occurs in the final stage named the luteal phase?

Answer 4

In this phase the GF reproduces and forms corpus luteum secreting progestogen this aids the endometrium for implantation. The mucus is more thicker to hinder sperm. Progestogen causes negative feedback reducing LH or further ovulation.

Question 5

What is secreted and stimulated to act upon the ovaries to promote the development of follicles ( The Follicular phase)?

Answer 5

Gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) is secreted and stimulates the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormones (LH) which acts up on the ovaries.

Question 6

What happens if at the end of the proliferative stage, fertilisation occurs?

Answer 6

The fertilised ovum passes down the fallopian tube to the uterus.

Question 7

What does the GF produced in the follicular phase secrete?

Answer 7

This secretes oestrogen.