This phase is so named because it is when the follicles in the ovary grow and form a nature egg-Name the phase:
A. menstruation
B. ovulation
C. luteal phas
D. follicular phase
Correct Answer: D. follicular phase
Explanation
The phase described is the Follicular Phase of the menstrual cycle.
Here’s a clear explanation:
• Why it’s called the Follicular Phase: During this phase, several ovarian follicles begin to grow under the influence of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). Each follicle contains an immature egg. Usually, one follicle becomes dominant and matures fully, preparing for ovulation.
• Timing: It starts on the first day of menstruation and continues until ovulation (roughly days 1–14 in a typical 28-day cycle).
• Hormonal activity: FSH rises to stimulate follicle growth, while estrogen levels gradually increase as the follicles develop.
So, the correct answer is: Follicular Phase
Other Options Details
Here is the description of all the options clearly:
A. Menstruation
- Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining (endometrium) when pregnancy does not occur.
- It marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle (Day 1).
- Blood and tissue are released through the vagina.
- Typical duration is 3–7 days.
- Hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) are low during this phase.
B. Ovulation
- Ovulation is the release of a mature ovum (egg) from the ovary.
- It occurs around Day 14 in a normal 28-day cycle.
- Triggered by a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
- This is the most fertile phase — highest chance of pregnancy.
- The ovum remains viable for 12–24 hours after release.
C. Luteal Phase
- The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until menstruation starts.
- The ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone (and some estrogen).
- Progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.
- If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, hormones drop, and menstruation begins.
- Typically lasts 14 days.
D. Follicular Phase
- Begins from Day 1 of menstruation to ovulation.
- FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) stimulates growth of ovarian follicles.
- The follicles produce estrogen, which helps regenerate and thicken the endometrial lining.
- Ends with the LH surge that triggers ovulation.
Summary Table
Phase Time Period Key Hormone Main Event Menstruation Day 1–7 Low estrogen & progesterone Shedding of uterine lining Follicular Phase Day 1–14 FSH & Estrogen Follicle growth & endometrial repair Ovulation Day 14 LH surge Release of mature ovum Luteal Phase Day 14–28 Progesterone Uterus prepares for pregnancy
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)