Corpus luteum
![](/Images/godic/202501/06/Gray11632036.png")
![Steroidogenesis, with progesterone in yellow field at upper center. The androgens are shown in blue field, and aromatase at lower center - the enzyme present in granulosa lutein cells that convert androgens into estrogens (shown in pink triangle).](/Images/godic/202501/06/Steroidogenesis.svg2036.png")
![Vaginal ultrasound showing a corpus luteum in a pregnant woman, with a fluid-filled cavity in its center.](/Images/godic/202501/06/Ultrasonography_of_corpus_luteum2036.jpg")
![](/Images/godic/202501/06/Human_Ovary_with_Fully_Developed_Corpus_Luteum2036.jpg")
The corpus luteum (Latin for "yellow body"; plural corpora lutea) is a temporary endocrine structure in female ovaries that is involved in the production of relatively high levels of progesterone and moderate levels of estradiol and inhibin A. It is colored as a result of concentrating carotenoids (including lutein) from the diet and secretes a moderate amount of estrogen to inhibit further release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and thus secretion of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). A new corpus luteum develops with each menstrual cycle.