Gland
Corpus luteum
The postovulatory source of progesterone
High-yield
Without pregnancy, luteal function usually wanes after roughly two weeks, with normal variation. Early pregnancy hCG maintains it until placental progesterone production becomes sufficient over the first trimester.
Overview
After ovulation, granulosa and theca cells reorganize into the corpus luteum. Vessels invade the former granulosa region, supporting rapid steroid production. This temporary ovarian structure prepares the endometrium for implantation and supports early pregnancy when maintained by hCG.
Reference facts
- Location
- At the site of the ovulated follicle in the ovarian cortex.
- Hormones
- Predominantly progesterone, with estradiol, inhibin A and relaxin; both luteinized cell populations contribute to steroid synthesis.
- Blood supply
- Rapidly developing capillaries enter tissue that was previously an avascular granulosa layer.
- Innervation
- Ovarian autonomic fibers affect vascular and local function; LH and, during early pregnancy, hCG are major endocrine supports.
- Function
- Creates and sustains a secretory endometrium and supplies early gestational progesterone during the transition to placental production.
Clinical correlation
Declining luteal steroid output contributes to menstrual shedding. Hemorrhage or rupture of a luteal cyst can cause acute pelvic pain and intraperitoneal fluid, overlapping with other causes of pelvic pain.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the corpus luteum located?
At the site of the ovulated follicle in the ovarian cortex.
What does the corpus luteum secrete?
Predominantly progesterone, with estradiol, inhibin A and relaxin; both luteinized cell populations contribute to steroid synthesis.
What does the corpus luteum do?
Creates and sustains a secretory endometrium and supplies early gestational progesterone during the transition to placental production.
What is the blood supply of the corpus luteum?
The corpus luteum is supplied by the rapidly developing capillaries enter tissue that was previously an avascular granulosa layer.