Maternity Nursing: Intrapartum NCLEX Practice PART 1

A nursing instructor is conducting a lecture and is reviewing the functions of the female reproductive system. She asks the student nurse to describe the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH). The student nurse accurately responds by stating that: o A. FSH and LH are released from the anterior pituitary gland. o B. FSH and LH are secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovary o C. FSH and LH are secreted by the adrenal glands o D. FSH and LH stimulate the formation of milk during pregnancy. Correct Correct Answer: A. FSH and LH are released from the anterior pituitary gland. FSH and LH, when stimulated by the gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus, are released from the anterior pituitary gland to stimulate follicular growth and development, the growth of the Graafian follicle, and production of progesterone. • Option B: The primary hormone produced from the corpus luteum is progesterone, but it also produces inhibin A and estradiol. In the absence of fertilization, the corpus luteum will regress over time. • Option C: Development of the ovarian follicle is largely under FSH control, and the secretion of estrogen from this follicle is dependent on FSH and LH. The granulosa cells of the ovary secrete inhibin, which plays a role in cellular differentiation. • Option D: In women, LH stimulates estrogen and progesterone production from the ovary. A surge of LH in the mid menstrual cycle is responsible for ovulation, and continued LH secretion subsequently stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone.