Question

The first phase of the menstrual cycle that begins after the previous menstruation has been completed is called the _______________.

a) Luteal phase
b) Ovulatory phase
c) Corpus luteum phase
d) Follicular phase

Answer 1

The first phase of the menstrual cycle after menstruation is the follicular phase, during which a follicle matures in response to rising FSH levels, leading up to ovulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first phase of the menstrual cycle that begins after the previous menstruation has been completed is called the follicular phase. During the follicular phase, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels rise, leading to the maturation of a follicle in an ovary. This phase overlaps with the menses phase during its early days when the endometrial lining is shed due to low progesterone levels. The follicular phase is followed by ovulation, triggered by a surge in LH (luteinizing hormone), and then transitions into the luteal phase, where the corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone and estrogen to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, progesterone levels will fall, leading to the shedding of the uterine lining and marking the beginning of the next menstrual cycle.