Question

One of the recognized phases of the menstrual cycle is termed the

(A) gestationalphase
(B) active phase
(C) follicular phase
(D) resting phase

Answer 1

The menstrual cycle phase in question is the follicular phase, which is the initial phase of the ovarian cycle characterized by the maturation of ovarian follicles stimulated by FSH and culminating in the rise of estrogen levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to the question is (C) follicular phase.

The follicular phase is the first phase of the ovarian cycle, during which several ovarian follicles are stimulated to mature, driven by a rise in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This phase usually lasts about 12 to 14 days in a standard 28-day menstrual cycle. Throughout this phase, the levels of estrogen increase as the maturing follicle secretes it. This rise in estrogen levels leads to changes within the endometrium of the uterus, preparing it for the possibility of pregnancy.

Following the follicular phase is ovulation, and then the luteal phase, which is characterized by the transformation of the ruptured follicle into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone to help maintain the endometrial lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum degrades, leading to a decrease in progesterone and eventually the onset of menstruation, marking the beginning of a new cycle.