Polarized Light Microscopy Digital Image Gallery

Progesterone

Vital for the successful implantation of a fertilized egg into the lining of the uterus, in months when fertilization does not occur, the levels of progesterone produced in the female body decrease soon after the egg is released. Several days later, bodily levels of the steroid drop to such an extent that the uterine wall begins to deteriorate, resulting in menstruation. However, if the egg released is successfully fertilized, progesterone production not only continues, but increases. This augmentation of the hormone serves to help maintain the corpus luteum, support the pregnancy, and ready the mammary glands for the production of milk.


© 1995-2022 by Michael W. Davidson and The Florida State University. All Rights Reserved. No images, graphics, software, scripts, or applets may be reproduced or used in any manner without permission from the copyright holders. Use of this website means you agree to all of the Legal Terms and Conditions set forth by the owners.
This website is maintained by our
Graphics & Web Programming Team
in collaboration with Optical Microscopy at the
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.
Last modification: Thursday, Nov 20, 2003 at 03:51 PM
Access Count Since November 20, 2003: 7915
Microscopes provided by:
Visit the Nikon website. Visit the Olympus Microscopy Resource Center website.