Which one of the following hormones is essential for maintenance of endometrium?

Progesterone

The correct answer is Option (3) → Progesterone

The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure that forms in the ovary from the remnants of the ovarian follicle after ovulation. Its primary function is to produce progesterone, a hormone crucial for preparing and maintaining the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg (embryo). If fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum continues to produce progesterone to support early pregnancy until the placenta takes over this function. In the absence of fertilisation, the corpus luteum degenerates. This causes disintegration of the endometrium leading to menstruation, marking a new cycle. In human beings, menstrual cycles ceases around 50 years of age; that is termed as menopause. Cyclic menstruation is an indicator of normal reproductive phase and extends between menarche and menopause.