LH in females stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete

Options

A. Estrogen and progesterone
B. Relaxin and FSH
C. Testosterone and progesterone
D. Progesterone only

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Role of LH:**
- Luteinizing hormone (LH) is produced by the gonadotropic cells in the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system, particularly in the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

2. **LH and Ovulation:**
- The secretion of LH is triggered by the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. A significant surge in LH levels leads to ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary.

3. **Formation of Corpus Luteum:**
- After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum. This structure is essential for hormone production in the second half of the menstrual cycle.

4. **LH's Effect on Corpus Luteum:**
- LH stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete hormones. The primary hormone produced by the corpus luteum is progesterone, which is vital for maintaining the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question "LH in females stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete" is **progesterone only** (Option 4).