Question

Ovulation in the human female normally takes place during ................. of menstrual cycle.

• A. The end of the proliferative phase
• B. The mid secretory phase
• C. Just before the end of the secretory phase
• D. The beginning of the proliferative phase

Answer 1

The correct option is A The end of the proliferative phase

The reproductive cycle in the female primates (e.g., monkeys, apes and human beings) is called menstrual cycle. In human females, menstruation is repeated at an average interval of about 28/29 days, and the cycle of events starting from one menstruation till the next one is called the menstrual cycle. The cycle starts with the menstrual phase, when menstrual flow occurs and it lasts for 3-5 days.

The menstrual phase is followed by the follicular (proliferative) phase.

During this phase, the primary follicles in the ovary grow to become a fully mature Graafian follicle and simultaneously the endometrium of uterus regenerates through proliferation. These changes in the ovary and the uterus are induced by changes in the levels of pituitary and ovarian hormones. The secretion of gonadotropins (LH and FSH) increases gradually during the follicular phase, and stimulates follicular development as well as secretion of estrogens by the growing follicles. Both LH and FSH attain a peak level in the middle of cycle (about 14th day).

Rapid secretion of LH leading to its maximum level during the mid-cycle called LH surge induces rupture of Graafian follicle and thereby the release of ovum (ovulation). The ovulation (ovulatory phase) is followed by the luteal (secretory) phase during which the remaining parts of the Graafian follicle transform as the corpus luteum.