Final answer:
The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is responsible for producing progesterone, facilitating the regrowth of the uterine lining and preparing the uterus for potential pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phase of the menstrual cycle that produces progesterone is the luteal phase. During the luteal phase, following ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is responsible for secreting estrogen and a significant amount of progesterone, which promotes the regrowth of the uterine lining and prepares the uterus for a potential pregnancy. Additionally, this progesterone secretion inhibits the release of further follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), ensuring that no new follicles develop while it is elevated.
The correct answer to the question, 'Which phase will the nurse illustrate as producing progesterone?' is D) Luteal phase.