Okay... so I'm curious. The life span of the ovarian corpus luteum is extended for about 3 months after implantation, but otherwise it deteriorates. Why? And why should the corpus luteum remain functional following implanation? Can somebody please "dummie" this down in a way that I can understand?

Thanks!

I will try to 'dummie' it down, because I found your question interesting so went searching, read a lot and in a nutshell it is:

******In most mammals the fertilised egg develops quickly into an embryo and implants, forming a placental link with the mother, around about 14 days. During this 14 day period, prior to implantation, the embryo needs 'nutrition' in order to develop and survive. This is provided by the corpus luteum in the form of the release of the hormone progesterone.

I hope that explains it and apparently when the progesterone is no longer needed, either is the corpus luteum.

Biologists are still trying to determine just exactly what it is, does, where it goes, but no one as yet as come up with those answers, but for the time being, I think the one above will suffice... I hope... good luck :)

Thanks tickle... that makes it much easier to understand! I'm glad you took the time to help explain this to me! :)

Very good question!!

My Anatomy & Physiology professor expained it as the corpeus luteum is similar to the yolk in an egg. As the zygote matures to an embryo it needs nourshment in which it gets from the corpeus luteum.

The rest is EXACTLY as Tickle described it.