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D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles

Ovarian and uterine cycles coordinate follicle growth, ovulation, endometrium maintenance and menstruation through FSH, LH, estrogen and progesterone feedback loops.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
D3.1.5
Level
HL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing8%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2024
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1–4

Common command terms

  • Sketch
  • Identify
  • Outline
  • Explain

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Confusing LH with FSH or progesterone when identifying the hormone that triggers ovulation.

Recent exam appearances

November 2024Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ08(b)[ 4 ]D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles
May 2021Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ125[ 1 ]D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles
May 2021Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ124[ 1 ]D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles
May 2018Paper1 ["HL"] · TZ240[ 1 ]D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles
May 2017Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ27(c)[ 8 ]D3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cycles
Practice this objective

Coverage 2013–2024 · Updated 16 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • FSH promotes follicle development and estrogen secretion.
  • A high estrogen concentration stimulates the LH surge that triggers ovulation.
  • Progesterone maintains the endometrium and inhibits further FSH and LH secretion.
ConceptIB Biology HL