- Many processes within the body are coordinated by chemical substances called hormones which are secreted by glands and are usually transported to their target organs by the bloodstream
- Hormones regualte the functions of many organs and cells
Several hormones are involved in the menstrual cycle such as promoting the release of an egg:
- FSH is secreted by the pituitary gland and causes eggs to mature in the ovaries and also stimulates the ovaries to produce oestrogen
- LH stimulates the release of eggs from the ovary
- Oestrogen is secreted by the ovaries and inhibits further producion of FSH
The use of hormones in controlling fertility include:
- Oral contraceptive that contain hormones to inhibit FSH production so that no eggs mature
- Giving FSH and LH in a 'fertility drug' to a woman whose own lever of FSH is too low to stimulate eggs to mature e.g. IVF
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