Expert: Walter Hintz - 1/17/2010

Question
Mr.Walter Hintz .. I have a couple of question about the menstrual cycle :
first one: If the corpus luteum is removed before the fourth month abortion occurs. Why?
second: What are the effects of the reduction in the secretion of oestrogen and progesterone by the corpus luteum.

Answer
Progesterone is necessary to maintain the integrity of the endometrium.  If the progesterone is cut off before the fertilized ovum reaches the uterus the implantation cannot occur. The Corpus luteum secretes the hormones until the placenta forms. If the CL fails before this time the progesterone the endometrium sloughs off and the pregnancy ends.