The Phase of the Uterine Cycle from Ovulation Until the Corpus

Question

The phase of the uterine cycle from ovulation until the corpus luteum breaks down is the ________.
A) proliferative phase
B) secretory phase
C) follicular phase

Accepted Answer

The phase from ovulation until the corpus luteum breaks down is known as the secretory phase because during this time, the endometrial glands secrete nutrients to prepare for the potential implantation of a fertilized egg. The proliferative phase occurs just prior to ovulation and is characterized by the growth and thickening of the endometrial lining, while the follicular phase refers to the development of follicles in the ovary leading up to ovulation.