ST.

HUGH’S HIGH
HUMAN AND SOCIAL BIOLOGY
GRADE 10

The Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle typically lasts for 28 days. This cycle involves changes in the ovaries
and uterus in preparation for possible pregnancy. The menstrual cycle is controlled by
hormones such as FSH, LH, oestrogen and progesterone. The cycle can be divided into four
main stages/steps:
Menstruation (period): Occurs from day one of the cycle and typically lasts 7-8 days. This
involves the breakdown of the unfertilized egg and the uterus lining. During this stage, the
oestrogen and progesterone levels are low.
Follicular stage: This typically lasts for fourteen days but may be extended. It involves the
development of immature eggs in the follicle of the ovary and is triggered by the presence of
the pituitary hormone FSH.
Ovulation: This involves the release of a mature egg from a follicle in the ovary. This stage
happens on day 14 of a regular 28 days cycle and is triggered by the pituitary hormone LH.
Prior to the egg being released, there is a spike in the oestrogen level; Oestrogen helps to
prepare the uterus for possible pregnancy.
Luteal stage: After the egg is released from the follicle, the remains of the follicle forms a
yellow body called corpus luteum. The corpus luteum releases the hormone progesterone
which maintains and thickens the uterus lining. If the egg is not fertilized menstruation occurs
and the cycle restarts.
 Short Activity Complete the table below:
Hormone Where it is secreted Role in the menstrual cycle
Gonadotropin hormone Hypothalamus Stimulate the secretion of
FSH and LH
Follicle Stimulating Pituitary gland Stimulates the growth of
Hormone (FSH) eggs in a follicle in the
ovary
Liutenising hormone Pituitary gland Stimulates ovulation and the
release of progesterone from
the corpus luteum
Oestrogen Ovaries Thickens the uterus lining
Progesterone Corpus luteum Maintain the uterus lining

Using the calendar below, if Susan’s first day of menstruation is August 2, on what date will
her next menstruation likely occur?
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
Susan was last sexually active three day before her egg was released. Is Susan at risk of
become pregnant? Explain your answer.
Ans.