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Follicular Phase

Meaning

The Follicular Phase is the first, proliferative stage of the ovarian and menstrual cycle, beginning precisely with the onset of menses and concluding with the event of ovulation. Physiologically, this phase is characterized by the pituitary secretion of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which prompts the initial growth and maturation of several ovarian follicles, each containing an oocyte. The dominant, selected follicle then secretes increasing amounts of estradiol, a key hormone that prepares the uterine lining for potential implantation and triggers the eventual Luteinizing Hormone (LH) surge. This phase is critical for reproductive competence.