What are sexual hormones? 

Sex hormones are hormones that play a crucial role in the development and functioning of the reproductive system. They are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and maintenance of reproductive tissues in both males and females. 

Hormonal control of the menstrual cycle:

The menstrual cycle is a complex, regulated process involving the interplay of hormones to prepare the female body for potential pregnancy. The key hormones involved in this process are Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle by initiating and promoting the growth of ovarian follicles. During the early part of the cycle, FSH stimulates several follicles in the ovaries to develop. Each follicle contains an immature egg. As these follicles mature, they produce increasing amounts of estrogen. FSH’s primary function is to support the development of these follicles, ensuring that one becomes dominant and capable of releasing a mature egg during ovulation.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH):

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) takes center stage during the midpoint of the menstrual cycle, triggering the process of ovulation. As estrogen levels peak, the high concentration of estrogen signals the pituitary gland to release a surge of LH. This surge is responsible for the final maturation of the dominant follicle and the subsequent release of a mature egg from the ovary. The release of LH marks the midpoint of the menstrual cycle and is a crucial event in the preparation for potential fertilization.

Estrogen:

Estrogen, primarily produced by the developing follicles in the ovaries, is a key player in the menstrual cycle. During the follicular phase, rising estrogen levels stimulate the growth and thickening of the uterine lining (endometrium). This prepares the uterus for the potential implantation of a fertilized egg. Additionally, a surge in estrogen just before ovulation contributes to the release of LH, which triggers the release of the mature egg from the follicle. Estrogen’s influence extends beyond the reproductive system, contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics and overall hormonal balance.

Progesterone:

After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum, which is responsible for producing progesterone. Progesterone is essential for maintaining the uterine lining during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. If fertilization occurs, the embryo relies on progesterone to sustain a supportive environment for implantation and early pregnancy. However, if fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, leading to a decline in progesterone levels. This drop in progesterone signals the uterus to shed its lining, initiating menstruation and marking the start of a new menstrual cycle.

In the menstrual cycle, hormones like FSH help eggs in the ovaries grow, like helpers getting things ready. LH gives a signal for a mature egg to come out, a bit like a special moment for the egg. Estrogen makes a cozy home in the girl’s belly, preparing the uterus for a potential baby. Lastly, progesterone helps maintain that cozy home, but if there’s no baby, it cleans up and gets ready for the next chance. These hormones work together in two phases: FSH and LH help eggs grow and come out in the first part, and estrogen and progesterone maintain the uterus and prepare for a baby in the second part. If there’s no baby, the cycle starts again with the shedding of the uterine lining, like having a little monthly party in the belly.