What is the function of FSH during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle?

During the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, the primary function of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is to stimulate the development of ovarian follicles. FSH is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in the maturation of ovarian follicles, which are necessary for egg development.

As FSH levels rise, it encourages the growth and proliferation of granulosa cells within the follicles, leading to increased estradiol production. This process prepares one dominant follicle to mature and eventually ovulate. The development of ovarian follicles is essential for the subsequent stages of the menstrual cycle, including ovulation and the preparation of the uterine lining for potential implantation.

The other choices reflect different physiological processes. For example, while ovulation does occur later in the cycle and is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), it is not the primary role of FSH during the follicular phase. Maintenance of the endometrial lining is primarily under the influence of progesterone, which is secreted by the corpus luteum after ovulation. Lastly, signaling the corpus luteum to degrade relates to hormonal changes that occur if fertilization does not take place, which is not the role of FSH during the follic