Editing Corpus albicans (section)

== Background ==
During  the  first  few  hours  after  expulsion  of  the  ovum from  the  follicle,  the  remaining granulosa and theca interna cells change rapidly into ''lutein cells''. They enlarge in diameter two or more times and become filled with [[Steroid hormone|lipid inclusions]] that give them a yellowish appearance.

This process is called ''[[luteinization]]'', and the total mass of cells together is called the ''corpus luteum''.  A  well-developed vascular supply also grows into the corpus luteum.

The ''[[granulosa cells]]'' in the corpus luteum develop extensive intracellular smooth [[endoplasmic reticula]] that form large amounts of the female sex hormones ''[[progesterone]]'' and ''[[estrogen]]'' (more  progesterone than estrogen during the luteal phase). The ''[[Theca of follicle|theca cells]]'' form mainly the androgens androstenedione and testosterone. These hormones may then be converted by [[aromatase]] in the granulosa cells into estrogens, including [[estradiol]].

The corpus luteum normally grows to about 1.5 centimeters in diameter, reaching this stage of development 7 to 8 days after ovulation. Then it begins to involute and eventually loses its secretory function and its yellowish, lipid characteristic about 12 days after ovulation, becoming the corpus albicans.<ref name=Marieb>{{cite book | last = Marieb | first = Elaine | title = Anatomy & physiology | publisher = Benjamin-Cummings | page= 915 | year = 2013 | isbn = 9780321887603 }}</ref> In the ensuing  weeks, this is replaced by connective tissue and over months is reabsorbed.<ref>Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology (12th Ed) 2011, page number: 991</ref>