The menstrual cycle in females is controlled by hormones that are secreted by

The menstrual cycle is a complex physiological process regulated by the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian (HPO) axis. The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, secretes Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) [4]. These hormones stimulate the ovaries to mature follicles and trigger ovulation [4]. In response, the ovaries produce steroid hormones, primarily estrogen (estradiol) and progesterone [1]. These ovarian hormones regulate the thickening of the uterine lining (endometrium) and provide feedback to the pituitary gland to coordinate the cycle [4]. Other options are incorrect because the lacrimal gland is responsible for tear secretion [2], the sebaceous gland produces skin oils (sebum) [3], and the prostate is a male accessory gland [1]. Therefore, the cycle is controlled by the coordinated hormonal secretions of the ovary and the pituitary gland.

Sources

1. [4] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 6: Control and Coordination > Activity 6.4 > p. 111
2. [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500020/
3. [2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/veterinary-science-and-veterinary-medicine/local-hormone
4. [3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/tear-protein