HORMONAL CONTROL OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE

Ovum develops in GRAAFIAN FOLLICLE, the cells of which produce OESTROGEN (Day 1-14).

The high level of oestrogen cause the development of endometrium.

After ovulation the graafian follicle becomes the CORPUS LUTEUM, which secretes PROGESTERONE. Progesterone maintains the endometrium, a "maintaining hormone".

When levels of progesterone falls the endometrium is no longer "maintained", causing MENSTRUATION.

If conception occurs progesterone levels continue to rise to "maintain" the pregnancy.

FSH - causes development of the follicle

LH - stimulation causes ovulation.

SEXUALITY THROUGH LIFESPAN CONTINUUM

PRE-NATAL - Determination of sex - morphogenesis

0 - 5 years - Growth of sex organs - gender differences in body

6 - 12 years - Friendships with both genders

13 - 18 years - Adolescence, puberty, menarche

capability for ejaculation and fertilisation

capability to conceive

19 - 30 years - pregnancy - + parent role

Long term partnerships

31 - 44 years - Sexual interest may vary with menstrual cycle

45 - 64 years - Menopause

65 + years - Sexuality activity and interest may continue into old

age.