Hormones in human reproduction - EdexcelReproductive hormones in the menstrual cycle

Hormones regulate the menstrual cycle. This involves the monthly release of an egg from the ovary and the build-up and breakdown of the lining of the uterus.

Part ofCombined ScienceAnimal coordination, control and homeostasis

The role of reproductive hormones in the menstrual cycle

A is a chemical substance, produced by a and carried by the blood, which alters the activity of specific target organs (and is then destroyed by the liver).

Different hormones affect different organs or cells.

An illustration of the role of reproductive hormones in menstrual cycle.
Figure caption,
The location of the endocrine glands in the body - the main hormones involved in reproduction are released by the pituitary gland, ovaries and testes

The menstrual cycle and hormones

Greg Foot describes the interaction of FSH, LS, oestrogen and progesterone in the menstrual cycle

The is a recurring process that takes around 28 days. During the process, the lining of the is prepared for pregnancy. If implantation of the fertilised egg into the uterus lining does not happen, the lining is then shed. This is known as .

Several hormones control this cycle - for example, they are involved in controlling the release of an egg each month from an ovary, and changing the thickness of the uterus lining.