Progesterone is the name of the hormone secreted by the corpus luteum.
- The corpus luteum is a yellowish mass left after the ovulation of the mature ovarian follicle.
- It secretes progesterone which acts on the uterus and prepares its endometrial lining for pregnancy.
It also acts on mammary glands. - Corpus Luteum also produces inhibin A and estradiol.
- Changing progesterone levels can contribute to abnormal menstrual periods and menopausal symptoms.
- If there is no fertilized egg, progesterone levels drop and menstruation begins.
- Ovulation is when a mature egg is released from the ovary. The egg then moves down the fallopian tube where it can be fertilised.
- Ovulation typically lasts one day and occurs in the middle of a woman’s menstrual cycle, about two weeks before she expects to get her period.
