During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which hormone is primarily responsible for maintaining the endometrium and preventing menstruation?
Answer
Progesterone
The correct answer is Progesterone — Therefore, progesterone is the hormone that prevents menstruation during the luteal phase.
Step-by-step solution
- Identify the phase: luteal phase occurs after ovulation.
- Recall that after ovulation the ruptured follicle forms the corpus luteum.
- The corpus luteum secretes progesterone in high amounts.
- Progesterone prepares and maintains the endometrium for possible implantation.
- Therefore, progesterone is the hormone that prevents menstruation during the luteal phase.
Common mistake: Confusing estrogen peak with progesterone peak in the luteal phase
Concept tested: Hormonal regulation of luteal phase
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