16.5.4

Menstrual Hormones

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Menstrual Hormones

The menstrual cycle is controlled by four hormones from the endocrine system. These hormones are:

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FSH

  • FSH stands for Follicle Stimulating Hormone.
  • It is released by the pituitary gland and causes an egg in the ovary to mature.
  • FSH also stimulates (encourages) the production of oestrogen.
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Oestrogen

  • Oestrogen is produced in the ovaries and causes the development of the thick, spongy uterus lining.
  • Oestrogen also stimulates the production of Luteinising Hormone (LH) and inhibits (stops) the production of FSH.
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LH

  • LH stands for Luteinising Hormone.
  • LH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the release of a mature egg on Day 14 of the menstrual cycle.
  • This release is called ovulation.
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Progesterone

  • Progesterone is produced in the ovaries after ovulation.
  • It is responsible for maintaining the lining of the uterus during days 14-28.
  • When progesterone levels drop, this triggers the breakdown of the lining. This marks day 1 of the next menstrual cycle. Progesterone also inhibits (stops) the release of LH and FSH.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

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