Which cycle day range corresponds to the proliferative stage?

• A. Cycle day 7-14
• B. Cycle day 14-28
• C. Cycle day 1-6
• D. Cycle day 1-14

Answer: (A)

The proliferative stage happens after menstrual bleeding ends and before ovulation. During this time, rising estrogen from developing ovarian follicles thickens and rebuilds the endometrium in preparation for a possible pregnancy. This phase typically spans roughly days 7 through 14 of the cycle, with ovulation usually around day 14, marking the shift to the luteal phase driven by progesterone. So, days 7–14 best represent the proliferative stage. In contrast, the menstrual phase occurs earlier in the cycle (when bleeding happens), and the luteal phase follows ovulation (about days 14–28).