Corpus Luteum
The zona granulosa and theca cells remaining
in the ovary after ovulation and some surrounding capillaries
and connective tissue evolve into the corpus luteum. The corpus
luteum produces progesterone and, in the event of fertilization,
provides the required progesterone until the placenta is formed.
The corpus luteum also produces some estrogen. In the absence
of fertilization, the life span of the corpus luteum is 14 days.
