Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the hypothalamus in the female monthly cycle?
What happens to the majority of follicles stimulated at the beginning of each ovarian cycle?
What is formed over the oocyte just before ovulation?
Which hormones primarily influence the growth of the graafian follicle?
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What occurs when a follicle becomes atretic?
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Study Notes
Hormonal Regulation of the Ovarian Cycle
- Hypothalamus initiates female monthly cycles through secretion of gonadotropins.
- Key gonadotropins are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
- FSH and LH regulate cyclic changes within the ovaries.
Follicular Development
- At the beginning of each ovarian cycle, 15 to 20 follicles are stimulated to grow by FSH.
- Typically, only one follicle matures fully, while the others undergo degeneration, becoming atretic.
- Atretic follicles result in the degeneration of the oocyte and surrounding follicular cells, replaced by connective tissue.
Ovulation Process
- Just before ovulation, the developing follicle undergoes rapid growth, forming a graafian follicle.
- The surface of the ovaries shows local bulging due to the maturation of the graafian follicle.
- Prior to ovulation, the oocyte and adjacent ovarian wall cells form the cumulus oophorus, which encases the oocyte.
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Description
Test your knowledge on oral histology and the role of hormones during the female monthly cycle. This quiz covers the basic mechanisms of hypothalamus control over follicle stimulation and hormone secretion. Perfect for students studying embryology and human anatomy.
