What is the role of follicle-stimulating hormone in females?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system, primarily in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and the development of eggs (ova). FSH is secreted by the pituitary gland and stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which are small sacs that contain developing eggs.

As the follicles mature, they produce estrogen, which prepares the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. The action of FSH is essential for the growth of these follicles and the subsequent process of ovulation, where a mature egg is released from the ovary. This process is vital for reproduction and is fundamentally linked to fertility.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary role of FSH. While libido can be influenced by hormonal changes, it is not directly regulated by FSH. The regulation of the menstrual cycle involves various hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH) and estrogen, in addition to FSH, making it too simplistic to attribute control solely to FSH. Lastly, FSH does not inhibit the production of eggs; rather, it actively promotes their development and readiness for fertilization. Thus, the choice identifying FSH's role in triggering egg maturity and ovulation is the