# Explain how the hormones oestrogen and progesterone control the menstrual cycle.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 4.2 Hormonal coordination and control in humans · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Oestrogen causes the uterus lining to thicken / repair / rebuild
2. Progesterone maintains the uterus lining / keeps it thick
3. If the egg is not fertilised, progesterone levels fall
4. The uterus lining breaks down and menstruation occurs

## Key terms

- [oestrogen](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/oestrogen)
- [progesterone](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/progesterone)
- [menstrual cycle](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/menstrual-cycle)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-hormones-oestrogen-and-c7bf3638) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.