During which phase of the menstrual cycle do LH and FSH levels decrease significantly?

In the menstrual cycle, LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels significantly decrease during the menstruation phase. This phase marks the shedding of the uterine lining and the hormonal environment is quite distinct from other phases. During menstruation, the ovaries are less active, and as a result, there is a drop in the levels of these gonadotropins produced by the anterior pituitary gland.

This reduction in LH and FSH sets the stage for the next cycle, allowing the follicles to mature in the subsequent follicular phase, where levels of these hormones begin to rise again. In contrast to this, during the luteal phase and ovulation, LH and FSH levels fluctuate to support ovulation and prepare for a potential pregnancy, demonstrating their critical roles at different times in the cycle.