Key Reproductive Hormones
🔬 Key Reproductive Hormones
| Hormone | Made by | Function |
|---|---|---|
| FSH | Pituitary gland | Causes eggs to mature in ovary; stimulates oestrogen production |
| LH | Pituitary gland | Triggers ovulation (egg release) |
| Oestrogen | Ovaries | Repairs uterus lining; inhibits FSH; stimulates LH surge |
| Progesterone | Ovaries (corpus luteum) | Maintains uterus lining; inhibits FSH and LH |
Biology glossary
- What is contraception?
- Contraception is any method used to prevent pregnancy by stopping fertilisation or implantation of an egg. Methods can be hormonal, barrier, or other approaches.
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Memory Aids
Contraception methods comparison table — "HBS" (Hormonal, Barrier, Surgical): Group all methods into these three categories. Within Hormonal, the pill, implant, injection, and patch all work by inhibiting FSH (and thickening mucus). Within Barrier, condoms and diaphragms work physically. Surgical is permanent.
The pill's mechanism — "No FSH, No Egg, No Baby":
- Oestrogen in the pill inhibits FSH
- Without FSH, no egg matures
- Without an egg, no fertilisation possible
- Progesterone thickens mucus as a backup barrier
Condom's unique advantage: It is the only method that does two jobs — prevents pregnancy AND prevents STIs. Use the phrase "dual protection" in exam answers about condom advantages.
Now try it yourself
Quiz · Question 1 of 9
Which hormone triggers the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation)?
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This topic in real past papers
Every real exam question we've found on contraception, with a full worked answer.