In a lecture on sexual functioning, the nurse plans to include the fact ovulation occur when the:
A. Oxytocin level is high B. Blood level of LH is highC. Progesterone of LH is high D. Endometrial wall is sloughed off
Correct answer: B. Blood level of LH is high
Explanation
In a lecture on sexual functioning, the nurse should include that ovulation occurs when there is a surge (sudden increase) of Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
Correct Explanation
Ovulation is the process by which a mature Graafian follicle ruptures and releases the ovum (egg) from the ovary.
This occurs approximately in the middle of the menstrual cycle (around day 14 in a 28-day cycle).
Key Physiological Event
A surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) released from the anterior pituitary gland triggers ovulation.
Summary
Event Description
LH surge Causes the Graafian follicle to rupture and release the ovum
Timing Mid-cycle (about 14 days before the next menstrual period begins)
Associated hormone changes Estrogen rises → triggers LH surge → ovulation occurs
Supporting hormones FSH helps follicle mature before ovulation
Clinical Importance
Useful in fertility awareness and family planning
Identifying fertile period (2 days before and 1 day after ovulation)
LH surge is detected using ovulation predictor kits
Therefore, the nurse should teach that:
> Ovulation occurs when the level of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) sharply increases (LH surge).
Other Options Details:
Here is the explanation and description for all the options:
Question:
A. Oxytocin level is high
B. Blood level of LH is high
C. Progesterone level is high
D. Endometrial wall is sloughed off
Describe all the options
Option A: Oxytocin level is high
Oxytocin is a hormone released mainly from the posterior pituitary gland.
It plays an important role during childbirth by stimulating uterine contractions, and during lactation by facilitating milk ejection (let-down reflex).
It is not directly related to ovulation, but is most active during labor and breastfeeding.
Option B: Blood level of LH is high
LH (Luteinizing Hormone) is released from the anterior pituitary gland.
A sharp rise or surge in LH around the mid-cycle (Day 14 in a 28-day cycle) causes the graafian follicle to rupture, leading to ovulation (release of mature ovum).
Therefore, a high level of LH is the indicator that ovulation is occurring or about to occur.
Option C: Progesterone level is high
Progesterone is mainly secreted by the corpus luteum after ovulation.
It prepares the endometrium for implantation, increases uterine blood supply, and maintains pregnancy in the early weeks.
During the luteal phase, progesterone is high. If pregnancy does not occur, its level falls, leading to menstruation.
Option D: Endometrial wall is sloughed off
This refers to menstruation.
When progesterone and estrogen levels fall, the thickened endometrial lining breaks down and sheds, resulting in menstrual bleeding.
This process occurs at the beginning of the menstrual cycle (Day 1).
Summary
Option Meaning Phase
Oxytocin high Labor & milk ejection Delivery
LH level high Triggers ovulation Ovulation (mid-cycle)
Progesterone high Prepares uterus for pregnancy Luteal phase
Endometrium sloughed Menstruation Start of cycle