Which hormone triggers ovulation in females?

The hormone that triggers ovulation in females is Luteinizing Hormone (LH). During the menstrual cycle, a surge in LH secretion signals the ovaries to release a mature egg from the dominant follicle, a process known as ovulation. This surge typically occurs around the middle of the cycle, approximately 24-36 hours before ovulation, and is part of a complex interplay of hormones that regulate reproductive functions.

While estrogen, progesterone, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) play important roles in the menstrual cycle and reproductive health, they do not directly trigger ovulation. Estrogen helps in the growth and maturation of the follicle and preparation of the endometrium but does not initiate ovulation itself. Progesterone comes into play primarily after ovulation, working to maintain the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. FSH is involved in the early stages of follicle development and maturation but is not responsible for the actual triggering of ovulation. Thus, LH is the key hormone responsible for this pivotal event in the female reproductive cycle.