Question

The graph shows the changing levels of hormones during menstruation and ovulation. What happens to hormone levels during ovulation, and why is this important?

A graph shows the changing levels of hormones during menstruation and ovulation. As an individual approaches ovulation, hormone levels increase.
The hormone levels increase to prepare a woman’s body to receive a fertilized egg.
The hormone levels decrease to prepare a woman’s body to receive a fertilized egg.
The hormone levels increase, and the next menstrual cycle begins with shedding of the uterine lining.
The hormone levels decrease, and the next menstrual cycle begins with shedding of the uterine lining.

Answer 1

The hormone levels increase to prepare a woman’s body to receive a fertilized egg.

Explanation: In the lead-up to ovulation estrogen rises (causing the LH surge) and LH/FSH peak. The estrogen rise and subsequent progesterone after ovulation thicken and sustain the uterine lining and change cervical mucus to favor fertilization and implantation. If no fertilization occurs those hormone levels later fall and the lining is shed.