Question

Short / Long Answer question Type :
Briefly describe the events that occur during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle.

Answer 1

The proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle is also known as the follicular phase.

• Follicular phase - The follicular phase starts on the 1st day of menstruation and ends with ovulation. Prompted by the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland releases follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). This hormone stimulates the ovary to produce around five to 20 follicles (tiny nodules or cysts), which bead on the surface. Each follicle houses an immature egg. Usually, only one follicle will mature into an egg, while the others die. This can occur around the 10th day of a 28-day cycle. The growth of the follicles stimulates the lining of the uterus to thicken in preparation for possible pregnancy.