Question

Which phase of menstrual cycle starts after ovulation?

• A. Follicular phase
• B. Menstrual phase
• C. Luteal phase
• D. Bleeding phase

Answer 1

The correct option is C Luteal phase

Menstrual cycles begin after the girl attains puberty. The average duration of menstrual cycle is 28 days. But the length of menstrual cycle varies in women.
During menstrual cycle ovulation usually occurs on the 14th day if it is a 28-day cycle. LH surge causes ovulation. Ovulation is the release of the secondary oocyte from the Graafian follicle.

This is followed by the luteal phase or secretory phase during which the Graafian follicle converts into corpus luteum.
Corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland that produces hormone progesterone which maintains the endometrium. Thus progesterone makes endometrium suitable for implantation.

If ovulation is not followed by fertilisation, then the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone levels decrease and the endometrium sheds off. The shedding of endometrium results in bleeding through vagina. This phase is called bleeding phase or menstrual phase of the menstrual cycle.

Again the new cycle begins. Under the influence of FSH, the primary follicles begin to develop. This phase is called follicular phase.
The cells of the follicle secrete estrogen which rebuilds the endometrium which was lost during menstruation.