Corkscrew shaped endometrial gland is seen in:
A. Late secretary phase
B. Early proliferative phase
C. Late proliferative phase
D. Early secretary phase
Correct Answer: D. Early secretary phase
Explanation:
Corkscrew-shaped endometrial glands are seen in the Secretory phase (Luteal phase) of the menstrual cycle.
Explanation
- After ovulation, progesterone secreted by the corpus luteum acts on the endometrium.
- This causes the glands to become tortuous, coiled, and corkscrew-shaped, and the stroma becomes edematous.
- The endometrium becomes thick and suitable for implantation.
Key point
Phase Appearance of endometrial glands Proliferative phase Straight, tubular glands Secretory (Luteal) phaseCorkscrew-shaped / Coiled glands
Correct answer: Secretory (Luteal) phase
Other Options Details
Here is the explanation of all the options:
A. Late Secretory Phase
• This phase occurs at the end of the menstrual cycle, just before menstruation begins if no pregnancy has occurred.
• The corpus luteum degenerates, causing a sharp fall in progesterone and estrogen.
• The endometrium becomes ischemic, blood supply reduces, and the lining begins to break down.
• This leads to premenstrual symptoms and eventually menstruation.
B. Early Proliferative Phase
• Happens immediately after menstruation.
• The endometrial lining is thin because it was shed during the menstrual phase.
• Estrogen from developing follicles stimulates the regrowth (proliferation) of the endometrium.
• Cervical mucus is thick and scant.
C. Late Proliferative Phase
• Occurs just before ovulation.
• Endometrium becomes thicker and well-vascularized under high levels of estrogen.
• Cervical mucus becomes thin, stretchy, and clear (Spinnbarkeit), facilitating sperm entry.
• Dominant follicle enlarges and prepares for ovulation.
D. Early Secretory Phase
• Begins after ovulation.
• Progesterone from the corpus luteum causes the endometrium to become secretory and glandular, preparing for implantation.
• The lining becomes highly vascular, nourishing a potential embryo.
Summary Table
Phase Hormone Dominance Main Change Time
Early Proliferative Estrogen Endometrium begins to regrow Post-menses
Late Proliferative High Estrogen Endometrium thickens, ovulation approaches Pre-ovulation
Early Secretory Progesterone Endometrium becomes secretory Post-ovulation
Late Secretory ↓ Progesterone Endometrium breaks down Pre-menstruation
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)