Skip to content
ICSE Question Bank
2016Q1(h)(v)The Reproductive System
Short answerModerate1 mark
1(h)

State the main function of the following:

Corpus luteum

Topic: Corpus luteum

Previous-year question practice database

Answer

Exam answer

It SECRETES the hormones PROGESTERONE and OESTROGEN, which maintain the thickened lining of the uterus in readiness for implantation.

Explanation

The corpus luteum (yellow body) is what the empty Graafian follicle becomes after ovulation — a temporary endocrine structure.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT DECIDES THE CYCLE, and this is the point worth holding: if the ovum IS fertilised, the corpus luteum PERSISTS for several months, keeping progesterone high so the pregnancy continues if it is NOT fertilised, the corpus luteum DEGENERATES, progesterone falls, the lining can no longer be maintained, and MENSTRUATION follows

So the fate of one small structure determines whether a pregnancy continues or a period begins.

More from The Reproductive System

During which phase of the menstrual cycle does the endometrium shed?2026The surgical technique for females that can be used to prevent pregnancy.2026Fill in the blanks (a) to (e) with reference to the diagram of the human sperm: (a) The cap-like structure covering the head of the sperm is the __________. (b) The enzyme produced by it is __________. (c) The nucleus of the sperm contains __________ chromosomes. (d) The middle piece contains __________, which supply energy for motility. (e) The mixture of sperms and the secretions of the male accessory glands is called __________.2026Morula, Blastocyst, Oviduct, Foetus2026Where is the prostate gland located?2026Why does the prostate gland produce an alkaline secretion?2026