Read the given passage and answer the following questions:

Spermatogenesis results in the formation of sperms that are transported by the male sex accessory ducts. A normal human sperm is composed of a head, neck, a middle piece and tail. The process of formation of mature female gametes is called oogenesis. The reproductive cycle of female primates is called menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycle starts only after attaining sexual maturation (puberty). During ovulation only one ovum is released per menstrual cycle. The cyclical changes in the ovary and the uterus during menstrual cycle are induced by changes in the levels of pituitary and ovarian hormones. After coitus, sperms are transported to the ampulla, where the sperm fertilises the ovum leading to formation of a diploid zygote. The presence of X or Y chromosome in the sperm determines the sex of the embryo. The zygote undergoes repeated mitotic division to form a blastocyst, which is implanted in the uterus resulting in pregnancy. After nine months of pregnancy, the fully developed foetus is ready for delivery. The process of childbirth is called parturition which is induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism involving cortisol, estrogens and oxytocin. Mammary glands differentiate during pregnancy and secrete milk after child-birth. The new-born baby is fed milk by the mother (lactation) during the initial few months of growth.

The menstrual cycle starts after attaining which phase in female primates?

Puberty

The correct answer is Option (3) – Puberty

The menstrual cycle starts after attaining puberty in female primates. Puberty is the phase of life when a female becomes sexually mature and capable of reproduction. During puberty, hormonal changes occur, leading to the onset of the menstrual cycle. This cycle is crucial for reproduction, as it prepares the body for potential pregnancy each month.

Childhood, menopause, and pregnancy do not mark the start of the menstrual cycle:

• Childhood is the phase before sexual maturity.
• Menopause is when the menstrual cycle stops permanently, signaling the end of reproductive years.
• Pregnancy occurs after the menstrual cycle has been active and typically causes the cycle to pause temporarily.