Question

In a human female, the reproductive phase starts on the onset of puberty and ceases around middle age of the female. Study the graph given below regarding menstrual cycle and answer the questions that follow: \begin{figure}[h!] \centering \includegraphics[width=0.8\textwidth]{Screenshot 2025-01-17 101211.png} % Replace 'path_to_your_image.png' with the actual path to your graph image \caption{Graph showing the hormonal regulation and events during the menstrual cycle.} \label{fig:menstrual_cycle} \end{figure} For successful pregnancy, at what phase of the menstrual cycle can an early embryo (up to 3 blastomeres) be implanted in the uterus (IUT) of a human female who has opted for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)? Support your answer with a reason.

Hint:

The luteal phase provides a supportive environment for implantation due to high progesterone levels.

Answer 1

Implantation should occur during the luteal phase (days 15–28) of the menstrual cycle. Reason: The uterine lining (endometrium) is thick and vascularised during the luteal phase, providing optimal conditions for embryo implantation and development.