Question

Withdrawal of which of the following hormones is the immediate cause of menstruation?

• A. Estrogens
• B. FSH
• C. FSH-RH
• D. Progesterone

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question asks about the hormone whose withdrawal is the immediate cause of menstruation. Let's examine the roles of the hormones listed in the options to understand why the correct answer is progesterone.

1. Progesterone:

   Progesterone is a hormone produced by the corpus luteum in the ovary after ovulation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a drop in progesterone levels. This withdrawal of progesterone triggers the shedding of the uterine lining, which leads to menstruation.

2. Estrogens:

   Estrogens are primarily responsible for the growth and maintenance of female reproductive tissues and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Though estrogens also play a role in the menstrual cycle, their withdrawal is not the immediate cause of menstruation.

3. FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone):

   FSH is a gonadotropin that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the ovary before the release of an egg at ovulation. High levels of FSH are not directly responsible for menstruation.

4. FSH-RH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone-Releasing Hormone):

   This is a hypothalamic hormone that regulates the release of FSH. It is involved in regulating the reproductive hormones but does not directly trigger menstruation.

Conclusion: The immediate cause of menstruation is the withdrawal of progesterone. This hormone's decline leads to the breakdown of the uterine lining, resulting in menstrual bleeding. Therefore, the correct answer is Progesterone.