1. The Uterine (Menstrual) Cycle CHRISTIAN CHEW BIOL 260 | TUESDAY LAB | TONINI

2. Menstrual Cycle – cycle of changes the endometrium undergoes -Body’s preparation for implantation of an embryo and shedding if no embryo is implanted. Menstrual Phase – Days 1-5 Proliferative Phase (Preovulatory) – Days 6-14 Secretory Phase (Postovulatory) – Days 15-28

3. Hypothalamus GnRH – stimulates release of FSH & LH from Anterior Pituitary Anterior Pituitary FSH - Stimulation of follicles to mature, prepare for reproduction LH - Triggers ovulation and development of the corpus luteum Ovaries Estrogen – released by ovaries & corpus luteum. Progesterone - thickens the endometrial lining Estrogen and Progesterone - inhibit GnRH, FSH, LH secretion

5. Factors affecting Menstruation  Pregnancy – occurs after ovulation. Fertilization takes place in Fallopian tube. Implantation in the uterine endometrium.  Adipose Tissue – energy storage for reproduction.  Intense exercise – exercise-induced amenorrhea  Change in production and regulation of reproductive hormones.  Age – ovaries slow estrogen production