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Physiology · Reproductive physiology: ovulation
Sample itemWhich hormonal event directly triggers ovulation in a normal menstrual cycle?
Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.
The answer and the reasoning
B. Midcycle luteinizing hormone surge
Sustained high estradiol late in the follicular phase switches to positive feedback and triggers the LH surge, which causes ovulation and luteinization. Progesterone rises after ovulation.
Option by option
A. Progesterone fall at menstruation
Progesterone withdrawal triggers menstruation at cycle end.
B. Midcycle luteinizing hormone surge (correct)
Correct. LH surge is the immediate ovulatory trigger.
C. Continuous high FSH only
FSH supports follicular development but is not the direct ovulatory trigger.
D. Prolactin surge
Prolactin is not the normal ovulation trigger.
Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.
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