Describe the role of the menstrual cycle in preparing the uterus for pregnancy, including reference to the hormones involved.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
The menstrual cycle prepares the uterus for pregnancy by thickening the endometrium. Estrogen, released by the developing follicle, stimulates growth and repair of the uterine lining. Ovulation then occurs, releasing an egg from the ovary. After ovulation, progesterone from the corpus luteum maintains the thickened lining; if fertilisation does not occur, progesterone falls and the lining is shed.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact terms ‘endometrium’, ‘estrogen’, ‘progesterone’, ‘ovulation’
- Show the sequence: estrogen → lining growth, ovulation, progesterone → maintenance
- Mention shedding if fertilisation fails
Common mistakes
- Confusing estrogen with progesterone, or vice versa
- Omitting the role of progesterone in maintaining the lining
- Not stating that the lining is shed when progesterone falls
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- The uterus lining grows/thickens/repairs during the cycle
- Oestrogen causes the growth and repair of the uterus lining
- Ovulation occurs (release of an egg cell from the ovary)
- Progesterone maintains the uterus lining (if fertilisation does not occur, progesterone levels fall and the lining is shed)
Key terms in this question
Related
- All Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Describe" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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