The menstrual cycle and fertilisation

Flashcards about the menstrual cycle and fertilisation

What triggers the production of Gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH)?

GnRH is produced in response to low levels of oestrogen and progesterone, stimulating the production of FSH and LH.

Which hormone causes a follicle with the ovum to mature?

The follicle with the ovum matures in response to FSH.

Which dominant follicle produces oestrogen?

The Graafian follicle produces oestrogen.

What causes the surge in Luteinising Hormone (LH) before ovulation?

The concentration of oestrogen gives positive feedback to the anterior pituitary, leading to a surge in LH.

What happens during ovulation?

The oocyte matures and the follicular wall erupts, releasing the oocyte into the pelvic cavity.

What does the empty graafian follicle become, and which hormones does it produce?

The graafian follicle becomes the corpus luteum which produces mainly progesterone, but also oestrogen.

Until when does the corpus luteum release hormones?

The corpus luteum continues to release hormones until the placenta is ready to take over.

What happens in the Endometrium during the Proliferative phase?

The layer of endometrium in the uterus is renewed.

What changes happen to the endometrium 3-4 days before ovulation?

There is an increase in vascularity 3-4 days before ovulation occurs.

How does the endometrium change during the secretory phase?

The glands become swollen with blood and nutritive glandular secretions, creating a suitable environment for the ovum.

What causes menstruation to occur?

The spiral arteries go into spasm, cutting off the blood supply to the endometrium leading to necrosis and menstruation.

What causes the next cycle of follicle maturation to begin?

The fall in oestrogen leads to an increase in FSH and next cycle of follicle maturation begins.

Which hormone rescues the corpus luteum if fertilisation occurs?

Human Chorionic Gonadotrophic Hormone (HCG) rescues the corpus luteum.

According to Naegele's Rule, how is the Estimated Date of Delivery calculated?

Add 9 months and 7 days from the first day of the last menstrual period, or take away 3 months and add 7 days.

Why is understanding the menstrual cycle important for midwives regarding family planning?

Some women may choose natural methods so an understanding of the menstrual cycle, the hormones and ovulation is required.

How do ovulation predictor tests define the fertile phase?

Measuring level of oestrogen and Lutinising Hormone

When should the temperature be taken for the rhythm method of contraception?

The temperature should be taken on waking each morning and after at least 3 hours of rest.

How does cervical mucus change throughout the menstrual cycle?

After menstruation, the vagina is dry, the secretions become more liquid, looking like raw egg white near the time of ovulation, after ovulation, progesterone leads to thicker secretions which form a plug in the cervix.