Which hormone is responsible for stimulating the growth of ovarian follicles?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system by stimulating the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. These follicles are the structures that contain immature eggs and are essential for the menstrual cycle and ovulation. FSH is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and works in conjunction with luteinizing hormone (LH) to promote the development of these follicles, leading to the secretion of estrogen and the preparation of the uterus for potential pregnancy.

The other hormones listed have different functions in the body. Oxytocin primarily facilitates uterine contractions during childbirth and milk ejection during breastfeeding. Growth hormone is involved in overall growth and metabolism regulation but does not have a direct role in ovarian function. Luteinizing hormone, while involved in the reproductive cycle, primarily triggers ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum rather than stimulating the initial growth of ovarian follicles. Thus, FSH is the hormone specifically dedicated to the stimulation of ovarian follicle development.