Female Reproductive Cycle: Final Lecture

Overview

• Fourth and final video in the series on the female reproductive cycle
• Reviewed topics:
  • Period cramps
  • Ovulation
  • Fertilization
• Will also cover hormone level differences between men and women using charts
• Emphasis on the 28-day cycle in women

Key Charts and Concepts

Day 1-28 Cycle Charts

1. Endometrial Thickness

   • Days 1-3/5: Decrease/thinning (menstruation)
   • Triggered by fall in estrogen and progesterone from the previous cycle
   • Endometrial clearance is initiated for the next cycle

2. Hormones (FSH and LH)

   • Initial boost in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) initiates maturation of primordial follicles
   • 6-12 primary follicles start to develop, secreting estrogen
   • Estrogen causes endometrial buildup
   • Increased estrogen levels linked to increased libido
   • Only one dominant follicle matures, awaiting LH spike
   • LH spike causes follicle rupture, releasing the egg (ovulation)
   • Follicle becomes corpus luteum, secreting mainly progesterone to build up endometrial lining

3. Hormones (Estrogen and Progesterone)

   • Estrogen spiking prior to ovulation
   • Progesterone spikes post-ovulation from corpus luteum activities
   • Ensures uterus lining is prepared for potential implantation

Hormone Comparison: Men vs. Women

Testosterone (Men)

• Ages 0-12: Low levels
• Puberty (around age 12): Peak in testosterone
• Post-puberty: Stable and tapering off later in life
• Consistent levels, minor daily fluctuations

Estrogen (Women)

• Ages 0-12: Low levels
• Puberty: Significant increase
• Monthly fluctuations during reproductive years
• Menopause: Decrease to low levels

Summary

• Hormone fluctuations in women are significant compared to men’s relatively stable levels
• Empathy for women’s cyclical hormone changes related to reproduction

Conclusion

• Encouragement to subscribe and support
• Affiliates for anatomical artwork and models
• Importance of safe and consensual reproduction