Role of
Hormones in
Menstrual Cycle
Anton, Barbara, Gabi
Outline the role of hormones in the
menstrual cycle, including FSH (follicle
stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing
hormone), estrogen and progesterone.
Follicle Stimulating
Hormone
• Released by the pituitary gland
• Stimulates the growth of an ovarian follicle in the
ovary
o The follicle consists of a developing egg cell surrounded by cells that
nourish and protect it
Luteinizing Hormone
• Produced by the anterior pituitary gland
• Triggers ovulation and development of the corpeus
luteum
• LH is necessary to maintain luteal function for the
first two weeks.
• On day 14 there is a burst of LH that triggers
ovulation
Estrogen
• Estrogen is secreted by a developing follicle
• Shapes development of the female reproductive
system and secondary sex characteristics:
o
o
o
o
Broad hips
Breast & milk development
Increase vaginal lubrication
Reduce muscle mass
• Immediate role of estrogen is to stimulate regrowth
of the lining of the uterus, in preparation for possible
pregnancy
Estrogen
• Low levels of estrogen also exert negative
feedback on the hypothalamus, keeping blood
levels of FSH and LH relatively low.
Progesterone
• Similar to estrogen, contributes to
further thickening the uterine lining
and exerting negative feedback to
suppress FSH and LH secretion