Final answer:
The follicle becomes the corpus luteum after ovulation, which is crucial for the production of progesterone and estrogen.
Step-by-step explanation:
After ovulation, the follicle that housed the ovulated egg becomes what is known as the corpus luteum. This change marks the beginning of the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The corpus luteum is an important hormonal structure that forms from the remains of the follicle post-ovulation. It secretes hormones such as progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone plays a vital role in maintaining the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy and inhibits the release of further Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which prevents the maturation of additional eggs during this cycle.
In the event of a pregnancy not occurring, the corpus luteum eventually degenerates into a structure known as the corpus albicans. If fertilization does take place, however, the corpus luteum is essential in sustaining the production of hormones needed to support the early stages of pregnancy.
After ovulation, the follicle becomes the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure that develops from the ruptured follicle. It produces the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are important for preparing the uterus to accept a fertilized egg and maintain the uterine lining during pregnancy.