Definition

1. Noun:
   • Yellow endocrine tissue that forms in a ruptured Graafian follicle after the release of an ovum; it degenerates after a few days unless pregnancy has begun: The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure in the female ovary, crucial for the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The corpus luteum secretes progesterone to prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy.
  • If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum will degenerate, leading to menstruation.

Advanced Usage

• "Maintenance of the corpus luteum": In early pregnancy, the hormone hCG signals the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone.
  • The maintenance of the corpus luteum is essential during the first trimester.

Variants and Related Words

• Luteal phase (n): The phase of the menstrual cycle following ovulation, during which the corpus luteum is active.
  • Progesterone levels rise during the luteal phase.

Synonyms

• Yellow body: A direct descriptive synonym for corpus luteum, derived from its Latin meaning.

Related Terms and Phrases

• Corpus luteum cyst: A type of ovarian cyst that can form if the corpus luteum fills with fluid and persists.
  • A corpus luteum cyst is usually harmless and resolves on its own.
• Luteolysis: The process of degeneration of the corpus luteum.
  • Luteolysis is triggered by prostaglandins when pregnancy does not occur.

Noun

1. yellow endocrine tissue that forms in a ruptured Graafian follicle following the release of an ovum; it degenerates after a few days unless pregnancy has begun