What is the influence of progesterone on breast tissue prior to menstruation?

The influence of progesterone on breast tissue prior to menstruation is primarily characterized by the growth of the lobules and alveoli. In the menstrual cycle, progesterone plays a crucial role during the luteal phase, which occurs after ovulation and just before menstruation. This hormone promotes the differentiation of breast tissue, leading to the development of lobular structures and alveoli that are essential for milk production.

During this phase, placental and ovarian progesterone prepare the breast for potential lactation by stimulating the formation and maturation of these structures. This is in contrast to the follicular phase, where estrogen predominates and primarily stimulates the proliferation of the mammary ducts and the growth of connective tissues.

The other options relate to different aspects of breast tissue changes. While estrogen tends to facilitate the proliferation of the mammary ducts and can impact connective tissues like Cooper's ligaments, progesterone's direct influence is notably on breast lobule and alveolar growth, which is essential for future lactation potential. The increase in the number of glands of Montgomery, which are sebaceous glands in the areola, is not directly influenced by progesterone in the same context as lobule and alveolar development. Thus, growth of the lobules and alveoli accurately