5.3 The Menstrual Cycle

Question 1

What are the four stages of the menstrual cycle?

Answer 1

Menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase

Question 2

What happens during the follicular phase?

Answer 2

The egg matures in the ovary, and the lining of the uterus begins to thicken

Question 3

What happens during ovulation?

Answer 3

The mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube

Question 4

What happens during the luteal phase?

Answer 4

The ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum and produces progesterone, which maintains the uterus lining

Question 5

What happens during menstruation?

Answer 5

The lining of the uterus breaks down and is shed if fertilization does not occur

Question 6

What is the role of progesterone in the menstrual cycle?

Answer 6

Progesterone maintains the thickened lining of the uterus

Question 7

What is the role of estrogen in the menstrual cycle?

Answer 7

Estrogen stimulates the growth of the uterine lining and triggers the release of LH during ovulation

Question 8

What is the role of LH (luteinizing hormone) in the menstrual cycle?

Answer 8

LH triggers ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum

Question 9

What is the role of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) in the menstrual cycle?

Answer 9

FSH stimulates the maturation of eggs in the ovary