Hormonal Regulation Of The Menstrual Cycle Flashcards
What facilitates the implantation of the blastocyst into the uterine lining?
A complex interplay of cell adhesion molecules, proteolytic enzymes, and growth factors.
What hormones orchestrate the structural and functional changes in the uterus during pregnancy?
Estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
What role does FSH play in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle?
FSH stimulates granulosa cells within the ovarian follicles to produce estrogen.
How does estrogen affect the endometrial lining during the follicular phase?
Estrogen promotes the proliferation of the endometrial lining and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
What feedback mechanism does estrogen exert on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland?
Estrogen exerts negative feedback, regulating the secretion of FSH and LH.
What triggers ovulation?
A surge in LH levels triggers the final maturation of the dominant follicle, leading to its rupture and the release of the egg.
What facilitates the surge in LH levels during ovulation?
Positive feedback effects of rising estrogen levels on the pituitary gland.
What is associated with ovulation in terms of biochemical activity?
An increase in prostaglandin production, which mediates the inflammatory response and follicle rupture.
What forms after ovulation and what hormones does it secrete?
The corpus luteum forms from the remnants of the ruptured follicle and secretes progesterone and estrogen.
What is the role of progesterone and estrogen secreted by the corpus luteum?
These hormones maintain the integrity of the endometrial lining, preparing it for implantation.
What happens if fertilization does not occur?
The corpus luteum regresses, leading to a decline in progesterone levels and the onset of menstruation.
