Which phases are included in the ovarian cycle?

The correct answer includes the follicular phase, which is one of the two main phases of the ovarian cycle. The ovarian cycle is a regular sequence of changes that occurs in the ovaries, primarily in preparation for potential pregnancy.

The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation. During this phase, the follicles in the ovaries mature due to the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). One dominant follicle eventually emerges, leading to the release of an egg during ovulation. This phase is characterized by the thickening of the uterine lining to prepare for possible implantation.

In contrast, the menstrual phase is part of the uterine cycle and involves shedding the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur. Similarly, the secretory phase is also part of the uterine cycle, occurring after ovulation when the uterine lining further thickens under the influence of progesterone. The luteal phase, while part of the ovarian cycle, refers to the stage after ovulation when the remaining follicular tissue transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces hormones to support a potential pregnancy. It's important to note that while the luteal phase is involved in the ovarian cycle, it is not the answer