If fertilisation does not occur, the corpus luteum
- A. degenerates into a scar called the corpus albicans
- B. continues to grow throughout the cycle
- C. develops into the placenta
- D. starts secreting hCG
Explanation
Without hCG from an embryo, the corpus luteum survives only about ten days and then degenerates, its progesterone falling to trigger menstruation. Only in pregnancy does it persist, sustained by embryonic hCG.