Which endometrial layer sheds with menses?

Which endometrial layer sheds with menses?

• A. Basal
• B. Functional
• C. Endometrium
• D. Myometrium

Answer: (B)

The functional layer of the endometrium is the portion that sheds with menses. This superficial layer thickens each cycle under estrogen, then becomes secretory under progesterone after ovulation. If there’s no pregnancy, the functional layer degenerates and is shed, producing menstrual bleeding. The basal layer remains intact to regenerate a new functional layer for the next cycle. The myometrium, the muscular layer beneath, does not shed, and the entire endometrium is not shed—only the functional portion is.

The functional layer of the endometrium is the portion that sheds with menses. This superficial layer thickens each cycle under estrogen, then becomes secretory under progesterone after ovulation. If there’s no pregnancy, the functional layer degenerates and is shed, producing menstrual bleeding. The basal layer remains intact to regenerate a new functional layer for the next cycle. The myometrium, the muscular layer beneath, does not shed, and the entire endometrium is not shed—only the functional portion is.