Ovulation & Follicular Development Flashcards
How often are ovum released?
Once a month
What is ovulation?
An explosive release of ovum from a ruptured Graafian follicle
When does ovulation occur?
Mid cycle - day 14 of 28
How does ovulation alternate?
Monthly between the 2 ovaries
When do ova begin to develop?
During the embryonic life
How many oocytes are present at the time of birth?
Approximately 200,000 oocytes
What is ovulation regulated by?
The hypothalamus
What does the hypothalamus release?
Gonadotropins
What stimulates the hypothalamus?
Anterior pituitary gland
What does the anterior pituitary gland do?
It secretes varying levels of gonadotropins
What are the 3 gonadotropins?
Follicle stimulating hormone - FSH
Luteinizing hormone - LH
Luteotropic hormone - LTH
Tell me 2 things about Follicle stimulating hormone…
Causes follicle to develop during 1st half of Menstral cycle
Estrogen level rises with follicle maturation
What does Luteinizing hormone does?
Triggers ovulation
What does Luteotropic hormone do?
Maintains the corpus luteum
What day of the Menstral cycle does ovulation occur?
Day 14
What happens to the endometrial lining during ovulation?
It continues to grow due to stimulation from increased estrogen levels
During ovulation, what happens to estrogen levels and FSH production?
Estrogen levels increase and FSH production decreases
During ovulation, what does increased levels of estrogen trigger?
The release of LH from the anterior pituitary gland
LH rapidly increases over what time period?
24-36 hour time period
What does LH trigger?
Ovulation
What is an LH surge?
LH peaks 10-12 hours prior to ovulation
Used for ovulation prediction for conception - store bought tests
What releases the egg during ovulation?
The Graafian follicle
What directs the egg when it’s released during ovulation?
It’s directed by the fimbria into the infundibulum of the Fallopian tube
What is follicular rupture associated with?
The release of fluid into the posterior cul de sac
What does fluid in the posterior cul de sac cause?
Irritation to the membrane which causes pain
What is the German word for “middle pain”?
Mittleschmerz
