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The LH surge initiates ovulation of the oocyte and luteinization of the remaining granulosa cells, theca cells and surrounding connective tissue into the corpus luteum. With luteinization, the granulosa cells begin to synthesize progesterone instead of androgens, express increased LH receptors, and lose affinity for estrogen and FSH. These changes together promote increased progesterone production with concomitant decreased estrogen production. Progesterone secretion peaks days five through seven in the menstrual cycle after ovulation. |