Ovarian cycle

Ovarian cycle

The Ovarian cycle is a series of events in the ovaries that occur during and after the maturation of the oocyte (egg or ovum). This cycle consists of the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase, with occasional irregular cycles leading to anovulation. The ovarian cycle is a part of the larger menstrual cycle.

Follicular phase

The follicular phase is the first part of the ovarian cycle. During this phase, the gonadotropin levels increase, and the follicles in the ovary mature. This phase ends with ovulation. The main hormones controlling this stage are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

Ovulation

Ovulation is the release of the egg from the mature follicle. This event marks the end of the follicular phase and the beginning of the luteal phase. The release of the egg is triggered by a peak in LH.

Luteal phase

The luteal phase follows ovulation. During this phase, the corpus luteum forms from the remnants of the follicle that has released its egg. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone and estrogen, which prepare the uterus for possible implantation of a fertilized egg.

Anovulation

Anovulation is when no ovulation occurs during a menstrual cycle. This can be due to various factors such as stress, malnutrition, or medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

See also

• Menstrual cycle
• Hormonal contraception
• Menopause
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

References

Ovarian cycle Resources
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