# Explain the hormonal control of ovulation during the human menstrual cycle.

> IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus) — D3.1 Reproduction · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Rising oestrogen (from the developing follicle) triggers a positive feedback effect on the anterior pituitary / hypothalamus.
2. This positive feedback causes a surge in luteinising hormone (LH) released from the anterior pituitary.
3. The LH surge stimulates the mature (Graafian) follicle to rupture, releasing the secondary oocyte — this is ovulation.
4. After ovulation, LH stimulates the ruptured follicle to develop into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone (and oestrogen) to maintain the uterine lining / prepare the endometrium for implantation.

## Key terms

- [ovulation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ovulation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-the-hormonal-control-of-ovulation-696ee559) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.