Ovarian cycle

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Ovarian Cycle

The Ovarian Cycle (pronunciation: /oʊˈvɛəriən ˈsaɪkəl/) is a series of events in the ovaries that occur during and after the maturation of the oocyte (egg). This cycle is divided into two phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase, with the ovulatory phase acting as a transition between the two.

Etymology

The term "Ovarian Cycle" is derived from the Latin word "ovarium" meaning egg, and the English word "cycle", which refers to a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.

Follicular Phase

The follicular phase begins on the first day of the menstrual cycle and ends at ovulation. During this phase, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries. Each follicle contains an immature egg. The dominant follicle releases an egg during the ovulation phase.

Ovulatory Phase

The ovulatory phase is the midpoint of the ovarian cycle, typically occurring around day 14. The surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and FSH causes the dominant follicle to rupture and release the mature egg, a process known as ovulation.

Luteal Phase

The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next menstrual cycle. The ruptured follicle closes after releasing the egg and forms a corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum degenerates and progesterone levels decrease, leading to the start of the next menstrual cycle.

Related Terms

  • Menstrual Cycle: The monthly cycle of changes in the ovaries and the lining of the uterus (endometrium), starting with the preparation of an egg for fertilization.
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone: A hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that promotes the formation of ova or sperm.
  • Luteinizing Hormone: A hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that triggers ovulation and stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone.

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