Luteal Phase Defect

The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle spans from ovulation at midcycle until menstruation.

The luteal phase should last for at least 12 to 14 days.

A luteal phase which is less than 10 days will have difficulty producing an environment favorable for implantation.

The luteal phase derives its name from the fact the luteinized cells from the collapsed follicle undergo a structural transformation in response to increased vascularization, a process known as luteinization.

Thereafter these two cell types produce progesterone; one of which is dependent on the secretion of luteinizing hormone.

When a pregnancy occurs, and the developing blastocyst burrows into the uterine lining, the embryo will secrete hCG [Human chorionic gonadotropin], which stimulates the ovary to produce more progesterone.

This process is called luteal rescue.

If this process happens too late or if pregnancy does not occur, LH [Luteinizing Hormone] stimulation decreases, progesterone levels decrease and uterine prostaglandins are released.

This causes the corpus luteum to shrivel.

The uterine lining, because of lack of progesterone stimulation, is shed.

Read more: Luteal Phase Defect

---

TODAY'S BOOK SUGGESTION:
Hot Flashes Warm Bottles: First-Time Mothers Over Forty
by Nancy London

-- The first prescriptive and anecdotal guidebook for the multitudes of older moms, and distills the wisdom, insight, and practical advice gathered during her years as a therapist and support group leader.

With tips for renewing physical and sexual energy, parenting after infertility and adoption, balancing career and family, and caring for elderly parents, the personal stories from these older moms are often humorous, sometimes surprising, but always reassuring.

Without exception, the reader will be left with the comforting knowledge that she is not alone on her journey.

Hot Flashes fills a much-needed place in the parenting field, at a time when more and more women are embracing motherhood later in life.

Paperback: 192 pages
Click to order/for more info: Hot Flashes Warm Bottles

---

Category: Hormones, LH, luteal phase defect, menstrual cycles, ovulation, progesterone