Describe the roles of FSH, LH, and oestrogen in the menstrual cycle.

OCR A-Level Biology B — Advancing Biology (H422) — 3.3 Reproduction, growth and development · Describe · 5 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

The menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones released from the pituitary gland and the ovaries. These hormones interact to regulate the development of the uterus lining and the release of an egg each month.

Model answer (5 marks)

FSH is released by the pituitary gland and stimulates the maturation of an egg in the ovary.
Oestrogen is produced in the ovaries and causes the uterus lining to thicken and be maintained.
High oestrogen levels stimulate the release of LH from the pituitary gland.
LH is released from the pituitary gland and stimulates the release of an egg (ovulation).

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms FSH, LH, oestrogen and specify their source and action. Show the sequence: pituitary → FSH → follicle → oestrogen → LH surge → ovulation. Keep each point short and to the point to fit the 5‑mark structure.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing FSH with LH or vice‑versa. Saying oestrogen causes ovulation instead of LH surge. Omitting the source of the hormones (pituitary vs ovaries).

Mark scheme (5 marks)

  1. FSH is released by the pituitary gland
  2. FSH stimulates the maturation of an egg in the ovary
  3. Oestrogen is produced in the ovaries and causes the uterus lining to thicken / be maintained
  4. Oestrogen stimulates the release of LH (from the pituitary gland) / high oestrogen levels trigger LH release
  5. LH stimulates the release of an egg (ovulation)

Key terms in this question

FSH · LH · oestrogen · menstrual cycle

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