The chief source of progesterone is
A. Adrenal medulla
B. Corpus luteum
C. Ovary
D. Adrenal cortex
Correct Answer: B. Corpus luteum
Explanation
The chief source of progesterone is the Corpus Luteum.
Details:
- Corpus luteum (in the ovary) is the primary source of progesterone after ovulation in the non-pregnant female.
- During pregnancy, the placenta becomes the major source of progesterone after about the 10th–12th week.
Summary:
Condition Chief Source of Progesterone Non-pregnant female Corpus Luteum Pregnant female (after 1st trimester) Placenta
So, the correct answer is: Corpus Luteum.
Other Options Details
Here is the description of all the options:
A. Adrenal Medulla
- The adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal gland.
- It secretes catecholamines, mainly adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
- These hormones prepare the body for fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels.
B. Corpus Luteum
- It is a temporary endocrine structure formed in the ovary after ovulation from the ruptured Graafian follicle.
- It secretes progesterone (mainly) and small amounts of estrogen.
- Its main function is to maintain early pregnancy and prepare the endometrium for implantation.
- If fertilization does not occur, it degenerates into the corpus albicans.
C. Ovary
- The ovary is a female reproductive gland.
- It produces ova (eggs) and secretes female sex hormones.
- Main hormones produced are estrogen and progesterone.
- It plays a key role in menstrual cycle regulation, ovulation, and development of secondary sexual characteristics.
D. Adrenal Cortex
- It is the outer part of the adrenal gland.
- It secretes steroid hormones including:
- Glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol) – involved in metabolism and stress response
- Mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone) – regulates sodium and potassium balance
- Sex steroids (androgens)
- Essential for maintaining blood pressure, fluid balance, and energy metabolism.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)