Question

Fern tree pattern is present in which phase of menstrual cycle?

• A. \( \text{Secretory phase} \)
• B. \( \text{Follicular phase} \)
• C. \( \text{Ovulatory phase} \)
• D. \( \text{Regenerative phase} \)

Hint:

\textbf{Physiology: Menstrual Cycle and Cervical Mucus.} The changes in cervical mucus throughout the menstrual cycle are a useful indicator of fertility. The fern pattern is a sign of high estrogen levels and impending ovulation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The "fern tree pattern" or ferning is a microscopic appearance of dried cervical mucus that occurs due to the crystallization of sodium chloride. This crystallization is influenced by the levels of estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle. High estrogen levels, characteristic of the follicular phase leading up to ovulation, cause the cervical mucus to become thin, watery, and alkaline, with increased sodium chloride content, which results in the fern-like pattern upon drying. As ovulation approaches and during the ovulatory phase, the ferning is most prominent. After ovulation, during the secretory phase when progesterone levels rise, the cervical mucus becomes thick and viscous, and the fern pattern disappears. The regenerative phase refers to the repair of the endometrium after menstruation and is also characterized by low estrogen levels, so ferning would not be prominent. Therefore, the fern tree pattern is most evident during the follicular phase, peaking around ovulation, due to high estrogen levels. The provided correct option indicates the follicular phase.