Ovarian and Uterine Cycles

Ovarian and Uterine Cycles

To the tune of “Heart of Glass” by Blondie

[Verse 1]
During the follicular phase
Follicle cells proliferate
Develop into granulosa cells
An outer layer of theca cells as well

[Verse 2]
They develop to maturity
Can be more than one in other species
A fluid-filled antrum surrounds the oocyte
Partially developed follicles die

[Chorus]
Mature oocytes are released and enter the uterine tube
There is formation of the corpus luteum
From the ruptured follicle
This marks the start of the luteal phase

[Verse 3]
These ovarian changes
Occur at the same time as uterine phases
Tissue and blood are shed
During the menstrual process

[Chorus]
The uterus, in the proliferative phase, will start to renew
Through regrowth of endometrial tissue
Proliferation of blood vessels
And thickening of the myometrium

[Verse 4]
During the secretory phase
Conditions favour implantation
Endometrial glands secrete glycogen
More blood vessel proliferation