Hormones in Human Reproduction - The Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal Interactions (GCSE Biology)
The Menstrual Cycle: Hormonal Interactions
Hormonal Interactions in the Menstrual Cycle
Hormones work together in the menstrual cycle:
For example, the release of FSH from the pituitary gland eventually stimulates the release of oestrogen. When oestrogen levels are high enough, they suppress FSH. Therefore these two hormones negatively feedback one another.
Oestrogen also stimulates the release of LH which oestrogen levels are high. This causes the release of the egg cell.
Progesterone on the other hand inhibits both LH and FSH. Therefore, when oestrogen and progesterone levels are high, the uterus is prepared for pregnancy. If no fertilisation occurs, hormone levels drop. As oestrogen and progesterone drop, the inhibition of FSH ends. This means a new follicle can be stimulated and the menstrual cycle can begin again.
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