Reproductive Hormones

Flashcards regarding reproductive hormones, their functions, and related cycles.

Estrogen

A hormone primarily released by granulosa cells of the ovary, triggering growth of sex organs and development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Progesterone

A hormone mainly released by the corpus luteum and granulosa cells, primarily acting on the uterus to prepare it for potential pregnancy.

Testosterone

A hormone released by interstitial cells in the testes, regulating sex differentiation, development of sex organs, and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone released from the anterior pituitary that triggers ovulation and controls part of the ovarian cycle.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

A hormone released from the anterior pituitary that helps coordinate the development of oocytes in the ovary.

Ovarian Cycle

The cycle involving two phases, follicular and luteal, separated by ovulation.

Graafian Follicle

A mature tertiary follicle in the ovary with a large fluid-filled central cavity.

Corpus Luteum

A hormone-secreting structure formed from the collapsed Graafian follicle, producing estrogens and progesterone.

Menstrual Cycle

The cyclical changes in the functional zone of the uterus that occur in response to hormone levels, involving menstruation and three distinct phases.

Functional Zone

The layer of the uterus that undergoes changes during the menstrual cycle, leading to shedding of the uterine lining.

Secretory Phase

The phase of the uterine cycle following ovulation where progesterone and estrogen stimulate uterine gland enlargement.

Proliferative Phase

The phase of the uterine cycle characterized by the rebuilding of the endometrium due to estrogen release.

Atresia

The process by which non-selected follicles degenerate during follicular development.

Zona Pellucida

The translucent region that develops around the oocyte during follicle maturation.

Menarche

The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the beginning of a female's reproductive capability.

Inhibin

A hormone that suppresses FSH and LH secretion through negative feedback, regulating the ovarian cycle.

Cyclical Process

The recurring sequence of events in the ovarian and uterine cycles, driven by hormonal regulation.