Module 3S2 Chemistry of Reproduction

2.3.2S2 page 3

Reflect on the Big Picture

Jane did do more research on the hormonal control of the female reproductive system where she found that “bone density relates closely to (1) menstrual regularity and (2) the total number of menstrual cycles. Delayed onset of menstruation and/or premature cessation of menstruation removes estrogen’s protective effect on bone. Young women who experience delayed onset of menstruation and women who are no longer menstruating are more vulnerable to calcium loss, which results in a decrease in bone mass.  Can you relate this fact to Jane’s appearance and develop a hypothesis to explain her frailty? Can this fact be related to the high frequency of osteoporosis in women in their menopausal years?

Once Jane understood the effects of the stress she was putting on her body, she sought help for her eating disorder and left competitive gymnastic competition. Later on, in her early twenties she started having a normal menstrual cycle.

Lesson Summary

To be able to perpetuate the species, females need to for their sexual hormones to be properly controlled. The proper control of the sexual hormones leads to a healthy reproductive system and a greater chance of having offspring. 

For women, puberty starts with the increase in GnRH, which then causes the pituitary to release FSH and LH hormones. These hormones help with sexual development, successful formation of functioning gametes, and continual movement through the menstrual cycle.

Stress, eating disorders and excessive exercise can play a major role in hormone function that can result in not having a proper menstrual cycle.