What hormone is primarily responsible for ovulation?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is the key hormone responsible for triggering ovulation in the female reproductive cycle. LH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland, and its surge occurs in response to rising estrogen levels during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. This surge signals the mature ovarian follicle to release an egg, marking the point of ovulation.

In the context of the menstrual cycle, the critical role of LH becomes evident during the mid-cycle peak, where it induces the final maturation of the ovarian follicle and promotes the release of the egg into the fallopian tube. This biological process is essential for reproduction as it allows for the possibility of fertilization if sperm is present.

The other hormones mentioned contribute to different aspects of the menstrual cycle but do not directly trigger ovulation. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes follicle development and stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen, while estrogen itself plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterine lining, but is not the hormonal trigger for ovulation. Progesterone, released after ovulation, helps prepare the uterine lining for potential implantation. Thus, while FSH, estrogen, and progesterone are important in the overall reproductive process,