Question

Menstrual phase is followed by
A. Luteal phase
B. Follicular phase
C. Fertilization
D. Implantation

Answer 1

The menstrual cycle is the regular natural change occurring within the female genital system. This is an important cycle for the production of oocytes, and for the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy. It is regulated by the rise and fall of estrogen levels.

Complete answer:
The menstrual cycle is governed by hormonal changes. The cycle is divided into ovarian cycle and uterine cycle. The ovarian cycle consists of the follicular, ovulation, and luteal phase whereas uterine cycle is split into menstruation, proliferative phase, and secretory phase.
Cycles and phases:

1. Ovarian cycle
   Follicular phase: During this the ovarian follicles mature to release an egg.
   Ovulation: In this mature egg gets released from ovarian follicles into the oviduct.
   Luteal phase: It is the final phase of ovarian cycle and corresponds to the secretory phase. In this phase, pituitary hormones FSH and LH cause the remaining parts of the dominant follicle to transform into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. The increased progesterone in the adrenals starts to induce the production of estrogen. Falling levels of progesterone trigger menstruation and the beginning of the next cycle.
2. Uterine cycle:
   Menstruation: Menstruation (menses) is the first phase of the uterine cycle. The flow of menses serves as a sign that a woman has not become pregnant.
   Proliferative phase: In this the lining of the uterus grows. Upon maturation, the ovarian follicles secrete increasing amounts of estrogen. Estrogens initiate formation of a new layer of endometrium in the uterus.
   Secretory phase: The secretory phase is the final phase of uterine cycle. During this, corpus luteum produces progesterone, which helps in making the endometrium receptive to implantation of the blastocyst and supports early pregnancy, by increasing blood flow and uterine secretions and reducing contractility of smooth muscle in the uterus.

Therefore, the correct option is B, follicular phase.

Note: Menstrual hygiene products: Several menstrual hygiene products exist for menstrual management. Such products are used to avoid damage to clothing. Such products include sanitary napkins and tampons; cloth menstrual pad and menstrual cups. Various improvised products are also used such as cotton, cloth, toilet paper. However, due to inaccessibility to these products, Scotland in 2018 became the first country to provide free menstrual pads in schools and colleges. UK in 2019, announced a campaign to end period poverty globally by 2030.