What hormone is responsible for stimulating ovulation?

The hormone that is responsible for stimulating ovulation is luteinizing hormone (LH). During the menstrual cycle, a surge in LH levels triggers the release of a mature egg from the ovary. This process is known as ovulation and typically occurs around the midpoint of the menstrual cycle.

The role of LH is crucial as it works in conjunction with other hormones. For instance, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) helps in the maturation of ovarian follicles prior to ovulation, but it is LH that ultimately induces the release of the egg.

Estrogen and progesterone, while essential in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterine lining for potential implantation after ovulation, do not directly trigger ovulation itself. Instead, estrogen levels rise leading up to ovulation and help stimulate the LH surge. Thus, LH is specifically identified as the hormone responsible for initiating the ovulation process.