Which of the following lists the correct phases of the uterine (menstrual) cycle in order?

• A. Menstrual phase, proliferative phase, secretory phase
• B. G1 phase, S phase, G2 phase, M phase
• C. Follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase
• D. Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question. The uterine (menstrual) cycle refers to the physiological changes in the uterus that occur in response to hormonal fluctuations during a woman's reproductive cycle. This is distinct from other cycles like the cell cycle or ovarian cycle.
2. Step 2: Identify the phases of the uterine (menstrual) cycle. The uterine cycle consists of three main phases: the menstrual phase, the proliferative phase, and the secretory phase. These phases correspond to changes in the uterine lining (endometrium).
3. Step 3: Compare the options provided in the question. The correct phases of the uterine cycle are listed as 'Menstrual phase, proliferative phase, secretory phase.' The other options describe different biological processes: (1) the cell cycle (G1, S, G2, M phases), (2) the ovarian cycle (follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase), and (3) the stages of mitosis (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase).
4. Step 4: Recognize that the uterine cycle phases are distinct from the ovarian cycle phases. While the ovarian cycle involves follicular development and ovulation, the uterine cycle focuses on preparing the endometrium for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Menstrual phase, proliferative phase, secretory phase,' as this sequence accurately describes the phases of the uterine (menstrual) cycle.