Menstrual Cycle & Fertility — GCSE Biology Revision
Revise Menstrual Cycle & Fertility for GCSE Biology. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP.
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Go to Kidneys & OsmoregulationWhat is Menstrual Cycle & Fertility?
The menstrual cycle is a monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. It is controlled by four key hormones: FSH, LH, oestrogen, and progesterone. These hormones interact to cause the maturation and release of an egg (ovulation) and the build-up of the uterus lining.
Board notes: Covered by all major boards (AQA, Edexcel, OCR), particularly at the Higher tier. The interaction between the four hormones is a key focus.
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
On day 1 of the cycle, menstruation begins. The pituitary gland releases FSH, causing an egg to mature in a follicle in the ovary. The follicle produces oestrogen, which causes the uterus lining to thicken. Around day 14, a surge in LH triggers ovulation. The empty follicle then produces progesterone to keep the lining thick.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing the roles of FSH and LH. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) stimulates the egg to mature in the ovary. LH (Luteinising Hormone) triggers the release of the mature egg (ovulation).
- 2Thinking that menstruation (the period) is the main event. The period is just the first phase; the whole cycle is about 28 days long and involves complex hormonal interactions leading up to ovulation.
- 3Forgetting the role of progesterone. Progesterone is crucial for maintaining the lining of the uterus during the second half of the cycle, ready for a fertilised egg to implant.
Menstrual Cycle & Fertility exam questions
Exam-style questions for Menstrual Cycle & Fertility with mark-scheme style solutions and timing practice. Aligned to AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, CCEA, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP specifications.
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Menstrual Cycle & Fertility
Core concept
The menstrual cycle is a monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. It is controlled by four key hormones: FSH, LH, oestrogen, and progester…
Frequently asked questions
What are the four hormones of the menstrual cycle?
The four main hormones are Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinising Hormone (LH), oestrogen, and progesterone. FSH and LH are produced by the pituitary gland, while oestrogen and progesterone are produced by the ovaries.
How do hormonal contraceptives work?
Hormonal contraceptives, like the combined pill, contain oestrogen and progesterone. These inhibit the production of FSH and LH, preventing an egg from maturing and being released, thus preventing pregnancy.