Just in case you were confused, Copulation= intercourse
Speaking of reproduction lets take a look at the male and female reproductive systems:
What actually happens during the menstrual Cycle?
Hormone regulation in women
| Hypothalamus | → | GnRH | → | Pituitary | → | FSH | → | Follicle | → | Estrogens |
| Hypothalamus | → | GnRH | → | Pituitary | → | LH | → | Corpus luteum | → | Progesterone |
Order of Menstrual Events
1)The rising level of estrogen causes the endometrium to become thicker and more richly supplied with blood vessels and glands.
2)A rising level of LH causes the developing egg within the follicle to complete the first division, forming a secondary oocyte.
3)After about two weeks, there is a sudden surge in the production of LH.
4)This surge in LH triggers ovulation: the release of the secondary oocyte into the fallopian tube.
5)Under the continued influence of LH, the now-empty follicle develops into a corpus luteum (hence the name luteinizing hormone for LH).
6)Stimulated by LH, the corpus luteum secretes progesterone which
- continues the preparation of the endometrium for a possible pregnancy
- inhibits the contraction of the uterus
- inhibits the development of a new follicle
- If fertilization does not occur (which is usually the case),
- the rising level of progesterone inhibits the release of GnRH which, in turn,
- inhibits further production of progesterone.
- As the progesterone level drops,
- the corpus luteum begins to degenerate;
- the endometrium begins to break down, its cells committing programmed cell death (apoptosis);
- the inhibition of uterine contraction is lifted, and
- the bleeding and cramps of menstruation begin.
Male Reproductive System
Hormone Regulation
Hypothalamus → GnRH → Pituitary → LH → Testes → Testosterone
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