Despite the many studies that have been conducted using both primate and human models to understand the control of the menstrual cycle, there are many aspects of the hormonal dynamics of the menstrual cycle that are not understood. This Minireview summarizes the changes in estrogen regulation of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion that occur throughout life in women from the time of maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis resulting in the occurrence of the LH surge during puberty, through the reproductive years, to the changes in the regulation of the LH surge during premenopause and, subsequently, menopause.