Which two hormones are primarily involved in managing the menstrual cycle?

The hormones primarily involved in managing the menstrual cycle are estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen plays a crucial role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics. It is responsible for the growth of the uterine lining during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone, on the other hand, is produced mainly after ovulation and is essential for preparing the endometrium for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. Together, estrogen and progesterone regulate the various stages of the menstrual cycle, including the thickening of the uterine lining, ovulation, and menstruation.

In contrast, the other hormones mentioned do not have the same primary role in directly managing the menstrual cycle. For example, testosterone is mainly associated with male reproductive functions and does not play a central role in the menstrual cycle itself. Lutenizing hormone (LH) does contribute to certain phases, but it does not manage the cycle in the way estrogen and progesterone do. Cortisol is primarily involved in the stress response, while insulin regulates glucose levels. Thyroid hormones are important for metabolism and overall hormonal balance, but again, they do not directly control the menstrual cycle. FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) has a role