Question

what are the major hormones that govern the menstrual cycle and their major functions?

Answer 1

There are four major hormones which govern the menstrual cycle i.e Progesterone, Estrogen, FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone).

In the second half of menstrual cycle the progesterone level increases. Progesterone functioning is in thickening the inner lining i.e endometrium of uterus to recieve the fertilized egg and to nourish it.

Estrogen regulates the growth of uterine lining in the first half of menstrual cycle and in the absence of fertilization of egg the levels of estrogen decreases and menstruation starts.

FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of eggs in ovaries. Its levels are highest before the eggs gets released from the ovary.

LH levels are highest during ovulation and stimulates the release of egg from ovary. If there is fertilization of egg then LH stimulates corpus luteum to produce progesterone for sustaining the pregnancy.