The Menstrual Cycle | 3D Animation (2/2)

Recent questions

• What happens during the menstrual cycle?

  The menstrual cycle begins with menstrual bleeding, marking the start of the follicular phase characterized by low estrogen and progesterone levels. This phase involves the shedding of the uterus lining. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone, which triggers the growth of 5 to 20 follicles in the ovaries, with one follicle becoming dominant due to estrogen production.

• How does the ovulatory phase progress?

  The ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle involves a surge in luteinizing hormone, causing the dominant follicle to release its egg into the fallopian tube around day 14 of the cycle. This phase is crucial for ovulation, where the egg is released for potential fertilization.

• What occurs during the luteal phase?

  The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle follows ovulation and is characterized by decreased hormone levels. The corpus luteum is formed, producing estrogen and progesterone to thicken the uterine lining in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, this phase leads to menstruation.

• How does the pituitary gland influence the menstrual cycle?

  The pituitary gland plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle by releasing follicle-stimulating hormone, which prompts the growth of follicles in the ovaries during the follicular phase. Additionally, the pituitary gland releases luteinizing hormone, which triggers ovulation during the ovulatory phase.

• What is the significance of estrogen and progesterone in the menstrual cycle?

  Estrogen and progesterone are essential hormones in the menstrual cycle. Estrogen is responsible for the growth of the dominant follicle in the ovaries and thickening the uterine lining. Progesterone, produced by the corpus luteum, further supports the uterine lining and prepares the body for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, decreased levels of these hormones lead to menstruation.