Is progesterone made AT ALL in the follicular phase of menstrual cycle?

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September24

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Hey guys, quick question.

I know that FSH and LH are released in the first half (Fol. phase) of the menstrual cycle. Does the stimulate the follicle (which will form) to release estrogen AND progesterone or just estrogen. I ask this because most "menstrual cycle charts and graphs" show little or no progesterone until the luteal phase after ovulation.

Edit: Did a little more research. It seems like the corpus luteum actually secretes progesterone to maintain the lining of the uterus. Looks like its only estrogen in the first part. If anyone wants to correct me, they can
 
According to TPR the corpus luteum secretes estrogen and progesterone during the secretory phase. (It may be wrong, but I took my notes from this passage)

Excerpt: p423 Section 12.7
"Secretion of GnRH, FSH and LH is initially inhibited by estrogen; however, estrogen, which increases throughout the follicular stage, reaches a threshold near the end of this phage and has a positive effect on LH secretion.
This sudden surge in LH causes ovulation. After ovulation, LH induces the follicle to become the corpus luteum and to secrete estrogen and progesterone (this marks the beginning of the secretory phase). If pregnancy does not occur, the combined high levels of estrogen and progesterone feedback to strongly inhibit secretion of GnRH, FSH, and LH. When LH secretion drops, the corpus luteum regresses, no longer secretes estrogen or progesterone, and menstruation occurs."
 
OP, I strongly doubt the MCAT will try to trick you beyond the basic products and feedbacks/pathways of the menstrual cycle. But, I have been surprised by this demon test before....
 
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