Multiple hormones are responsible for the menstrual cycle, working in a coordinated manner. These include luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen, and progesterone.
Here's a breakdown of each hormone's role:
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Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Secreted by the pituitary gland, LH triggers ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.
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Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Also secreted by the pituitary gland, FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, which contain the developing eggs.
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Estrogen: Produced by the ovaries, estrogen thickens the uterine lining (endometrium) in preparation for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.
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Progesterone: Also produced by the ovaries, progesterone further prepares the uterine lining for implantation and helps maintain the pregnancy if it occurs.
In essence, LH and FSH initiate and control ovulation, while estrogen and progesterone regulate the changes in the uterine lining throughout the menstrual cycle. The interplay between these four hormones results in the cyclical changes characteristic of the menstrual cycle.
