What does Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) produce in women?

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a crucial hormone in the female reproductive system, primarily produced by the pituitary gland. Its main role is to stimulate the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which are the structures in the ovaries that contain the developing eggs. As FSH promotes the development of these follicles, it also plays an essential role in the production of female sex hormones, particularly estrogen.

As the follicles mature under the influence of FSH, they begin to secrete estrogen, which is vital for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting various reproductive processes. Therefore, option C accurately reflects FSH's dual role in producing both follicles and facilitating the secretion of female sex hormones.

In contrast, other options do not align with the specific functions of FSH. For example, testosterone is typically produced in the ovaries but is not a direct product of FSH. Progesterone is primarily produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation, not directly from FSH activity. Luteinizing hormone (LH) works alongside FSH but is produced separately and has different roles in the menstrual cycle. Thus, the focus of FSH on stimulating follicles and related hormonal production makes option C the correct choice.