Why Only One Corpus Luteum in Triplet Births?

[shorty_47_2000]

Can someone elplain why only one corpus luteum may be found in the ovaries of a women who has given birth to triplets? Thanks!

 

[Moonbear]

Is this for homework? Based on the phrasing, I'm going to assume so for now. Whether you're talking about twins or triplets, what are the two different ways you can get multiples? Do you know the terms fraternal vs identical twins? What's the difference? Now apply the same concept to triplets.

 

[ravenprp]

The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland that forms in the ovary after ovulation. Its main function is to produce progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. In a normal menstrual cycle, only one corpus luteum is formed, as only one egg is released during ovulation.

In the case of triplet births, it is likely that multiple eggs were released and fertilized during ovulation, resulting in the development of three embryos. However, the formation of multiple corpus luteums is not necessary for the maintenance of a multiple pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the placenta takes over the production of progesterone, rendering the corpus luteum unnecessary. Therefore, even if multiple eggs were released, only one corpus luteum is needed for the initial stages of pregnancy. This is why only one corpus luteum may be found in the ovaries of a woman who has given birth to triplets.

Additionally, the corpus luteum has a limited lifespan and will eventually degenerate if pregnancy does not occur. In the case of a multiple pregnancy, the placenta takes over the production of progesterone earlier on, causing the corpus luteum to degenerate sooner.

In summary, the formation of only one corpus luteum in triplet births is a natural and efficient process, as the placenta takes over the production of progesterone during pregnancy. This allows for the successful maintenance of a multiple pregnancy without the need for multiple corpus luteums.