The role of hormones in treating infertility
A KS4 biology or combined science lesson on the role of the fertility hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) in treating female infertility.
The PowerPoint begins by asking students to think of reasons why couples may experience fertility problems. Answers are suggested, such as thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome and having reached menopause. The resource then recaps the stages of the menstrual cycle and the role of the female hormones in regulating that cycle. Students are encouraged to consider which female reproductive hormones are likely to be used to treat infertility. They then sequence the stages of the in vitro fertilisation (IVF) procedure. Finally, they are prompted to research the advantages and disadvantages of fertility treatment.
An exam-style question on the menstrual cycle is included, and answers are provided.
An extract from the answers to the menstrual cycle sequencing task:
3. FSH causes eggs to mature and stimulates the ovaries to produce oestrogen.
4. Oestrogen causes the lining of the uterus to thicken.
5. The pituitary gland releases LH.
6. LH triggers ovulation.
7. After ovulation, the ovaries release progesterone.
