Question

Briefly describe the events that occur during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle.

Answer 1

1. Duration: The proliferative phase extends from the 6^th to the 13^th day of the menstrual cycle.
2. Follicular Development: Primary follicles in the ovary grow to form a fully matured Graafian follicle.
3. Endometrial Regeneration: The endometrium of the uterus regenerates through proliferation, repairing ruptured blood vessels from previous menstruation.
4. Hormonal Influence: Increasing secretion of gonadotropins LH and FSH stimulates follicular development and estrogen secretion by growing follicles.
5. Endometrial Changes: By the end of this phase, the endometrium thickens to 2-3 mm; endometrial glands become coiled and corkscrew-shaped.
6. Vascularization: Arterioles in the uterine wall grow longer and branch extensively, making the endometrium highly vascular.

These coordinated events prepare the uterus to receive a fertilized egg in subsequent phases of the menstrual cycle.