1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Fertility

Corpus Luteum

By , About.com Guide

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

After an egg has matured and been ovulated from the follicle, the empty follicle becomes a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum secretes the hormones estrogen and progesterone, preparing the body for the possibility of conception.

If conception does not take place, the corpus luteum diminishes, leading to a drop in the hormones progesterone and estrogen. This drop in hormones leads to menstruation.

Explore Fertility
About.com Special Features

8 Ways to Cut Drug Costs

Learn how to save money on medications with these recommendations. More >

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Fertility
  4. Infertility Glossary
  5. Infertility Glossary A - E
  6. Corpus Luteum - Definition of Corpus Luteum >

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.