Question

What happens to the corpus luteum during the luteal phase?

Answer 1

Corpus luteum:

1. The Graafian follicle is a fully mature fluid-filled cavity inside the ovary that contains an egg/ovum. Under the influence of a hormone of the anterior pituitary gland called luteinizing hormone (LH), the Graafian follicle ruptures and releases the egg/ovum. This process is known as ovulation.
2. A structure called corpus luteum is formed after ovulation from the remnants of the Graafian follicle.
3. The corpus luteum is responsible for the secretion of a steroid hormone called progesterone. If the egg/ovum is fertilized by a sperm, this hormone is responsible for the maintenance of pregnancy.
4. If there is no fertilization, the corpus luteum simply regresses/degenerates.
5. A phase called the luteal phase follows the process of ovulation. In this phase, the corpus luteum secretes the progesterone and estrogen (another steroid hormone). With time, the corpus luteum goes on reducing in size.