The Basic Mechanism of Interaction

The
HYPOTHALAMUS
3. inhibits FSH release Releases
Via the FSHRH

And and
LHRH

2. stimulates and the

PITUITARY
More LH release
Releases FSH and
And some LH

which stimulate
1. stimulates growth
of endometrium 1. growth of follicles
(undevelop eggs)
In, and
estrogen then

and 2. production of estrogen

by the

OVARY

More LH release continues; then suddenly it increases

to a distinct peak FSH also now shows a distinct peak
which causes a mature (Graafian) follicle to rupture
and discharge an egg

OVULATION

Corpus luteum forms

and produces estrogen and progesterone

which

inhibits release of ZSH and EH induce the endometrium to prepare

for implantation of egg
(progesterone especially)

If implantation occurs pregnancy

Ensues and the corpus luteum and if no implantation occurs, the corpus luteum
Endometrium are maintained degenerates;

and the cycle is renewed (at hypothalamus) progesterone and estrogen production decreases
causing

Menstruation

the pituitary to release more

FSH and LH

When progesterone and estrogen levels falls off, the endometrial cells shrink to approximately 65% of their
previous size, and about one day before menstruation begins, the blood vessels to the endometrium close off. The
endometrium therefore dies, and gradually separates from the rest of the uterus. The dead tissue plus a small
amount of blood cause uterine contractions, which expel the rest of the endometrium fluids. Sometimes these
contractions are so intense as to produce painful cramps.