Ovarian Cycle Overview

Ovarian Cycle: Overview

• The ovarian cycle is controlled by central hormones FSH and LH.
• The ovary responds by forming the ovarian cycle.

Follicular Phase

• Follicles grow in the ovary and release estrogen under the influence of FSH.

Ovulation

• The dominant follicle releases the ovum.

Luteal Phase

• The dominant follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which releases progesterone.
• This process leads to menstruation.
• If the released ovum is fertilized, pregnancy occurs.
• The resulting embryo releases human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which helps maintain the pregnancy by preventing the loss of the corpus luteum.
• The corpus luteum of pregnancy releases estrogen and progesterone.
• The placenta forms after 3 months.

Hormones Involved

• GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone)
• FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone)
• LH (Luteinizing hormone)
• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• HCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin)

Ovarian Cycle Diagram

• The diagram shows fluctuating levels of LH and FSH over time.
• The diagram also shows development of follicles within the ovary, ovulation process and the formation of the Corpus Luteum.
• Different stages of the cycle are labeled and stages of the development of the ovum are shown, including the Corpus Luteum.