Sárgatestje

Sárgatestje is the Hungarian term for corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure that develops in the ovary of female mammals after ovulation. It forms from the remnants of the ovarian follicle that released an egg. The primary function of the corpus luteum is to produce progesterone, a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy.

Progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg by thickening the uterine lining (endometrium) and making it receptive. If fertilization occurs, the developing embryo will signal the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone, thus maintaining the pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum will degenerate approximately 10-14 days after ovulation. This degeneration leads to a drop in progesterone and estrogen levels, which triggers menstruation, the shedding of the uterine lining. The corpus luteum is crucial for the success of reproduction in many species, including humans. Its development and regression are tightly regulated by hormonal signals from the pituitary gland and, during pregnancy, by hormones produced by the placenta. The absence or dysfunction of the corpus luteum can lead to infertility or early pregnancy loss.