How do increased levels of estrogen and progesterone appear to affect the level of FSH in the
blood?
Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone in the blood usually have a negative feedback effect on the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) by the pituitary gland. This means that when estrogen and progesterone levels are high, they signal to the pituitary gland to decrease the production and release of FSH.
Estrogen and progesterone play a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting the development of the uterine lining for potential pregnancy. As estrogen and progesterone levels rise during the menstrual cycle, they inhibit the production of FSH, which is responsible for stimulating the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles that contain eggs. This feedback mechanism helps to ensure that only one follicle becomes dominant and matures during each menstrual cycle.
Overall, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone tend to suppress FSH levels in the blood, while decreased levels of these hormones can lead to an increase in FSH secretion.