If fertilisation occurs, the developing embryo will implant in the endometrium and release hormones to sustain the corpus luteum. If fertilisation doesn't occur, the corpus luteum eventually degenerates (forming a corpus albicans after ~ 2 weeks). When the corpus luteum degenerates, estrogen and progesteron levels drop and the endometrium can no longer be maintained. The endometrial layer is sloughed away and eliminated from the body as menstrual blood (i.e. a woman's period). As estrogen and progesterone levels are too now low to inhibit the anterior pituitary, the cycle can now begin again

Then try StudyFetch, the AI-powered platform that can answer your questions and teach you more about it!