proliferative phase /-lif″ərətiv/ , the phase of the menstrual cycle after menstruation. Under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone from the pituitary, the ovary produces increasing amounts of estrogen, causing the lining of the uterus to become dense and richly vascular. The phase is terminated by rupture of a mature follicle and subsequent ovulation. Also called proliferative-follicular phase. Compare menstrual phase, secretory phase.
