ovarian cycle

Question 1

what is the ovarian cycle?

Answer 1

• Changes within the ovary
• maturation of an egg and its release into a uterine tube
• development of follicles in the ovary
• the formation of the corpus luteum
• Average of 28 days

Question 2

what are the stages of the ovarian cycle?

Answer 2

1) FSH stimulates development of ovarian follicles which releases oestrogen
2) Oestrogen levels peak and stimulate surge in LH-trigger ovulation
3) developing follicles becomes dominant
4) Oestrogen is first secreted by the graafian follicle which then develops in the corpus luteum which secretes progesterone
5) Graafian follicle ruptures which releases egg (day 14)
6) LH causes ruptured follicle to develop into the corpus luteum

Question 3

function of the corpus luteum

Answer 3

• secretes progesterone
• promotes the full development of the uterine lining
• maintains embryo
• inhibits development of more follicles