Definition:
The hormone-induced monthly cyclic change in the ovary proceeding from growth and maturation of primordial follicles, through ovulation of a secondary oocyte, and through the formation and maintenance of the corpus luteum.

Description:

The ovarian cycle and the menstrual cycle are dual manifestations of a basic female hormonal cycle. When the term ovarian cycle is used, the focus is on the changes in the ovaries effected by hormonal changes; when the term menstrual cycle is used, the focus is on the flow or nonflow of blood and endometrial tissue from the uterus, resulting from the very same hormonal changes.

Ovulation is the actual rupturing of a mature follicle releasing a secondary oocyte and follicular fluid, and is caused by a sharp rise in LH (luteinizing hormone) secreted from the anterior pituitary gland. Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle fills with blood, which is soon replaced with lipid-rich luteal cells, forming the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum secretes estrogen and progesterone, which stimulates uterine wall development and inhibits the secretion of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH from the anterior pituitary glands.

Indicators of ovulation include an increase in basal body temperature, the appearance of cervical mucus, and perhaps the sensation of low abdominal pain.