Ovarian & Uterine Cycles

What happens during the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle?

FSH stimulates follicle development and estrogen secretion. LH stimulates estrogen secretion.

What is the role of LH in ovulation?

The LH surge stimulates the release of an egg.

What occurs during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle?

LH develops and maintains the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and estrogen to prepare the uterus for implantation.

What is the menstrual phase of the uterine menstrual cycle?

The stratum functionalis layer of the endometrium sloughs off.

What occurs during the pre-ovulatory (proliferative) phase of the uterine menstrual cycle?

Estrogen stimulates the endometrium to build up.

What is the role of LH during ovulation in the uterine cycle?

The LH surge stimulates the release of the egg.

What happens during the post-ovulatory (secretory) phase of the uterine cycle?

The corpus luteum secretes progesterone and estrogen, preparing the uterus for implantation.

What happens if fertilization does not occur?

The corpus luteum degenerates into the corpus albicans, progesterone and estrogen levels decline, and the stratum functionalis sloughs off (menstruation).

What occurs if fertilization does happen?

The fertilized egg secretes hCG, which maintains the corpus luteum until the placenta is developed.