5.3.4 Hormones in Human Reproduction

What are reproductive hormones?

Reproductive hormones are chemicals released during puberty that cause secondary sexual characteristics and allow gametes to mature.

What is the main male reproductive hormone?

Testosterone.

Where is testosterone produced and what does it do?

Produced in the testes, it stimulates sperm production and causes secondary sexual characteristics.

What is the main female reproductive hormone?

Oestrogen.

Where is oestrogen produced and what does it do?

Produced in the ovaries, it stimulates the menstrual cycle and causes secondary sexual characteristics.

What is the menstrual cycle?

The monthly process preparing the uterus for pregnancy, involving breakdown and regrowth of the uterine lining, ovulation, and shedding if no fertilisation occurs.

What happens during ovulation?

On day 14, an egg is released from the ovary and travels through the fallopian tube.

What hormone causes the maturation of an egg in the ovary?

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).

Where is FSH produced and what does it do?

Produced in the pituitary gland, it stimulates the ovaries to produce oestrogen.

What does oestrogen do?

Oestrogen is produced in the ovaries and causes the lining of the uterus to grow again.

How does oestrogen interact with other hormones?

Oestrogen stimulates the production of LH and inhibits the secretion of FSH.

What does luteinising hormone (LH) do?

LH is produced in the pituitary gland and triggers ovulation (egg release).

What does progesterone do?

Produced in the ovaries, progesterone maintains the lining of the uterus and supports pregnancy if the egg is fertilised.

How does progesterone interact with other hormones?

Progesterone inhibits the release of both FSH and LH.