Corpus Luteum: It is a temporary endocrine gland that is produced by the reminiscence of the Graafian follicle after ovulation. It secretes large amounts of progesterone and also some amounts of estrogen and inhibin A. The progesterone secreted by the it helps in maintaining the endometrium for implantation and pregnancy. If fertilization doesn’t occur, it degenerates and the endometrium disintegrates leading to menstruation.

Functions of Corpus Luteum

• Secretion of hormones: It acts as a temporary endocrine gland. They secrete large quantities of Progesterone and small quantities of Estrogens.
• Maintenance of Pregnancy: If pregnancy occurs the corpus luteum remains active for the 3 months and maintains the pregnancy by secreting various hormones. Abortion results if the corpus luteum is removed in the early weeks of the pregnancy.

Location of Corpus Luteum

Internal reproductive organs include two ovaries, two fallopian tubes, one uterus, and a vagina. It may be located in either of the ovaries, depending on which one is participating in the current menstrual cycle.

Corpus Luteum Anatomy

It is a small, saffron-yellow cyst-like structure, approximately 2 to 5 centimeters in size. It comprises a mass of cells of two types — follicular granulosa cells and follicular theca cells. During pregnancy, these cells maintain progesterone secretion under the influence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, which is produced by the developing embryo.

Follow on Facebook

By Team Learning Mantras