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Describe the changes in the spiral arteries during the secretory phase.
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Spiral arteries grow, become more coiled, and help prepare the endometrium for possible implantation.
Describe the process leading to ovulation in the ovarian cycle.
Rising estrogen levels provide positive feedback to cause a surge in LH and FSH, leading to ovulation.
What are the two synchronized processes in the menstrual cycle?
The Ovarian Cycle and the Uterine/Endometrial Cycle.
What marks the end of the follicular phase?
The follicular phase ends with the occurrence of ovulation.
What triggers the start of a new menstrual cycle?
A drop in progesterone levels caused by the degeneration of the corpus luteum leads to the shedding of the endometrial functional layer.
What is menarche and when does it typically occur?
Menarche is the onset of the first menstrual period, typically occurring during early adolescence.
What occurs during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle?
The corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone and estrogen to prepare the endometrium for possible implantation.
Explain the feedback mechanism involved in the follicular phase.
Rising estrogen from developing follicles eventually results in positive feedback, increasing the levels of FSH and LH, which leads to ovulation.
What hormones are involved in controlling the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle?
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland.
What happens during the menstrual phase of the uterine cycle?
The old functional endometrial layer is shed.
What is the function of the corpus luteum in the secretory phase?
The corpus luteum secretes progesterone, and to a lesser extent, estrogen, to make the endometrium receptive to implantation.
Define menopause.
Menopause is the cessation of menstrual periods as ovarian function declines.
What role does estrogen play in the proliferative phase of the uterine cycle?
Estrogen thickens the endometrium, stimulates gland growth, and promotes the emergence of spiral arteries.
What are the two layers of the endometrium?
The functional layer, which is shed during menstruation, and the thin basal layer, which supports the functional layer.
How does the cervical mucus change during the proliferative phase?
Estrogen causes the cervical mucus to become more favorable for sperm mobility.
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