Which hormone is primarily responsible for ovulation?

• A. Estrogen
• B. Progesterone
• C. Luteinizing hormone (LH)
• D. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Answer: (C)

The hormone primarily responsible for triggering ovulation is luteinizing hormone (LH). During the menstrual cycle, a surge in LH levels occurs mid-cycle and plays a crucial role in the release of a mature egg from the ovarian follicle. This surge in LH is initiated by rising estrogen levels produced by developing follicles, which signals the body to proceed with ovulation.

While estrogen is important for the development and maturation of ovarian follicles, and progesterone prepares the uterus for a potential pregnancy post-ovulation, these hormones do not directly cause the ovulation process itself. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) facilitates the growth of ovarian follicles and works alongside LH, but it is LH that triggers the final events leading to ovulation. Thus, LH is recognized as the key hormone that initiates the release of the egg, making it the correct answer.