MCAT Biology: The Menstrual Cycle Explained (Ovarian Cycle, Uterine Cycle & Hormonal Feedback Loops)

In this episode of the Jack Westin MCAT Podcast, Mike and Molly break down one of the most confusing and heavily tested topics in MCAT Biology: the menstrual cycle.Instead of memorizing hormone charts and phase names, we focus on understanding the story behind the cycle so you can answer any MCAT question, even when it’s asked in an unfamiliar way.We cover:🧠 Why the menstrual cycle is really two parallel cycles (ovarian vs uterine)🔁 The follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase—and what actually drives each one📈 How estrogen switches from negative to positive feedback⚡ The LH surge and what truly triggers ovulation🟡 The role of the corpus luteum and why progesterone matters🧬 How the ovarian cycle “calls the shots” for the uterine cycle🚫 Why memorization fails on MCAT hormone questions🧪 How the AAMC tests this topic using passage-based reasoningIf hormone graphs blur together for you, or you’ve ever missed a question because you knew the facts but didn’t understand the why, this episode will help everything finally click.Want to learn more? Shoot us a text at 415-855-4435 or email us at [email protected]! 📱📌 Free Academic Advising: https://calendly.com/academic-advising-4/jack-westin-academic-advising?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast💻 Try our Chrome Extension (video solutions to every AAMC passage) https://tinyurl.com/4jw5pad8📚 Free Resources: https://jackwestin.com?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast🎓 Live Education Sessions: https://jackwestin.com/sessions?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast👨🏻‍🏫 Courses: https://jackwestin.com/courses?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast🙋 Tutoring: https://jackwestin.com/services/live-online-mcat-tutoring?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast📸 Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackwestinmcat?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast👥 Join our Facebook Study Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/freemcatprep?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=podcast