Ovarian and Uterine Cycle Quiz

The Ovarian and Uterine Cycles

• The ovarian cycle begins with the release of GnRH from the hypothalamus, stimulating the secretion of FSH and LH by the anterior pituitary, leading to follicle growth and estrogen secretion.
• FSH stimulates granulosa cell division and the secretion of glycoproteins around the oocyte, while the antrum develops within the follicle and estrogen levels increase.
• The primary oocyte completes stage I of meiosis, forming a secondary oocyte and a polar body within the mature Graafian follicle.
• Ovulation is triggered by a surge in LH, causing the follicle to rupture and release the secondary oocyte, polar body, and granulosa cells into the extracellular fluid.
• The remaining follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone in preparation for a potential fertilized egg, and degenerates if fertilization does not occur.
• If pregnancy occurs, the chorion secretes hCG, signaling the corpus luteum to produce progesterone and estrogen, which is later taken over by the placenta.
• The uterine cycle is linked to the ovarian cycle and involves menstrual, proliferative, and secretory phases, preparing the endometrium for potential pregnancy.
• During the menstrual phase, declining estrogen and progesterone levels lead to the disintegration of the endometrial lining and the shedding of tissue and blood.
• The proliferative phase is characterized by the thickening of the endometrial lining and the production of watery cervical mucus to facilitate sperm passage, leading to ovulation.
• The secretory phase involves the production of estrogen and progesterone by the corpus luteum, causing further endometrial thickening and the preparation of the uterus for a developing embryo.
• If fertilization does not occur, the degeneration of the corpus luteum leads to declining hormone levels and the start of another menstrual cycle.
• The menstrual cycle may cause discomfort, including symptoms such as PMS, dysmenorrhea, and hormonal and physical changes, which can be managed with exercise and medications.

Test your knowledge of the ovarian and uterine cycles with this quiz. Explore the hormonal and physiological processes involved in follicle development, ovulation, corpus luteum function, and the stages of the uterine cycle. Gain insights into the interplay of hormones, the preparation of the endometrium for potential pregnancy, and the management of menstrual cycle discomfort.