Final answer:
The first hormone produced during the menstrual cycle is FSH, which, along with LH, stimulates estrogen production. Estrogen and progesterone, produced by the ovarian follicles and the corpus luteum respectively, play key roles in regulating the menstrual cycle. The correct option is d) FSH.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first hormone produced during the menstrual cycle is FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone). FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a critical role in the development of the ovarian follicles, which are structures that mature the ova (eggs).
Alongside FSH, the pituitary gland also produces LH (Luteinizing hormone), which together with FSH, stimulates the follicles to produce estrogen.
Estrogen, in turn, helps in the development of the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus) and regulates the menstrual cycle. As the follicle matures, estrogen levels increase, and after ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which then produces progesterone.
Progesterone is responsible for the further development and maintenance of the endometrium, especially in preparation for a potential pregnancy. The correct option is d) FSH.