Final answer:
The correct answer is option b. The assertion is false because estrogen initially has a negative feedback effect on FSH and LH, preventing their increase. It is only when the estrogen level from the dominant follicle reaches a high threshold that a positive feedback mechanism triggers an LH surge, leading to ovulation around day 14 of the cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the growing follicle produces more estrogen levels which cause the release of more FSH and LH, peaking at day 14 is false. In fact, the sequence of hormonal events leading up to ovulation is more nuanced. During the early and mid-follicular phase, increasing estrogen levels produced by developing follicles primarily exert a negative feedback on the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
This prevents a premature LH surge that could lead to early ovulation. However, as the follicular phase progresses, the rising estrogen output from the dominant follicle reaches a threshold that switches its effect on the pituitary from negative to positive feedback.
As a result, we see a sharp increase in LH secretion, known as the LH surge, which occurs around day 14 in a typical 28-day cycle. The LH surge triggers ovulation, during which the most mature follicle ruptures and releases its egg. The rapid increase and subsequent decline in LH levels also lead to a decrease in FSH levels.
Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces estrogen and progesterone. Progesterone begins the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, preparing the endometrial lining for potential implantation, and inhibits the release of further FSH and LH, preventing the development of additional follicles.