Question

How does the endometrium assist in the reproductive cycle?

The myometrium causes blood loss during menarche.

The functional layer of the endometrium releases estrogen and progesterone.

The functional layer of the endometrium is shed during the menstrual period.

The basal layer of the endometrium regenerates the myometrium each month.

Answer 1

The endometrium thickens in response to estrogen during the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle to prepare for implantation. If no embryo implants, progesterone production ceases, leading to the shedding of the thickened endometrium during menstruation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The endometrium plays a crucial role in the reproductive cycle by preparing for potential implantation of an embryo. During the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle, estrogen from growing tertiary follicles causes the stratum functionalis layer of the endometrium to thicken. If an embryo implants, the corpus luteum produces progesterone to maintain this lining.

However, if no implantation occurs, the corpus luteum degrades, progesterone levels fall, and the thickened endometrial layer is shed during menstruation. The endometrium is then rebuilt during the proliferative phase, supported by rising estrogen levels.