Luteal phase: Difference between revisions

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'''Luteal Phase'''
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Luteal Phase}}
 
The '''[[Luteal phase]]''' is a stage in the [[menstrual cycle]] that occurs after [[ovulation]] and before the start of a woman's next period. It typically lasts about 14 days and ends just before the next menstrual period begins.


== Overview ==
== Overview ==
The '''luteal phase''' is a stage in the [[menstrual cycle]] of humans and other mammals. It occurs after [[ovulation]] and before the start of [[menstruation]]. The luteal phase is characterized by the presence of the [[corpus luteum]], which secretes [[progesterone]] and some [[estrogen]]. These hormones are crucial for maintaining the [[endometrium]] and preparing it for a potential [[pregnancy]].


The luteal phase begins after ovulation, when the [[corpus luteum]] forms in the [[ovary]]. The corpus luteum is responsible for the production of the hormone [[progesterone]], which prepares the [[endometrium]] (the lining of the uterus) for the potential implantation of a fertilized egg.
[[File:Menstrual_cycle.svg|thumb|right|Diagram of the menstrual cycle, including the luteal phase.]]


== Hormonal Changes ==
== Physiology ==
The luteal phase begins immediately after ovulation, which is the release of an [[ovum]] from the [[ovary]]. Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is responsible for the production of progesterone, which is essential for the maintenance of the uterine lining.


During the luteal phase, the levels of [[estrogen]] and progesterone increase to thicken the endometrium. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates and the levels of these hormones decrease. This leads to the shedding of the endometrium, or menstruation.
=== Hormonal Changes ===
During the luteal phase, progesterone levels rise, leading to the thickening of the endometrial lining. This prepares the uterus for the possible implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a decrease in progesterone and estrogen levels, which triggers the shedding of the endometrial lining, known as menstruation.


== Luteal Phase Defect ==
== Duration ==
The luteal phase typically lasts about 14 days, but it can range from 11 to 17 days. The length of the luteal phase is relatively constant for each individual, although it can vary between different individuals.


A '''[[Luteal Phase Defect]]''' (LPD) is a condition characterized by an inadequate luteal phase, either in terms of length or function. This can lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining a pregnancy.
== Clinical Significance ==
A short luteal phase, known as [[luteal phase defect]], can be a cause of [[infertility]] or [[recurrent miscarriage]]. This condition is characterized by insufficient progesterone production, which can prevent the proper implantation of an embryo.


== Treatment ==
== Related Pages ==
 
* [[Menstrual cycle]]
Treatment for LPD typically involves hormone therapy to increase the levels of progesterone. This can be done through the use of [[progesterone supplements]] or fertility drugs.
 
== See Also ==
 
* [[Menstrual Cycle]]
* [[Ovulation]]
* [[Ovulation]]
* [[Corpus Luteum]]
* [[Corpus luteum]]
* [[Progesterone]]
* [[Progesterone]]
* [[Endometrium]]
* [[Endometrium]]
* [[Estrogen]]
* [[Luteal Phase Defect]]
* [[Progesterone Supplements]]
[[Category:Menstrual Cycle]]
[[Category:Reproductive System]]
[[Category:Endocrinology]]
[[Category:Gynecology]]


{{stub}}
[[Category:Reproductive system]]
[[Category:Menstrual cycle]]

Latest revision as of 12:08, 15 February 2025


Overview[edit]

The luteal phase is a stage in the menstrual cycle of humans and other mammals. It occurs after ovulation and before the start of menstruation. The luteal phase is characterized by the presence of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and some estrogen. These hormones are crucial for maintaining the endometrium and preparing it for a potential pregnancy.

Diagram of the menstrual cycle, including the luteal phase.

Physiology[edit]

The luteal phase begins immediately after ovulation, which is the release of an ovum from the ovary. Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is responsible for the production of progesterone, which is essential for the maintenance of the uterine lining.

Hormonal Changes[edit]

During the luteal phase, progesterone levels rise, leading to the thickening of the endometrial lining. This prepares the uterus for the possible implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a decrease in progesterone and estrogen levels, which triggers the shedding of the endometrial lining, known as menstruation.

Duration[edit]

The luteal phase typically lasts about 14 days, but it can range from 11 to 17 days. The length of the luteal phase is relatively constant for each individual, although it can vary between different individuals.

Clinical Significance[edit]

A short luteal phase, known as luteal phase defect, can be a cause of infertility or recurrent miscarriage. This condition is characterized by insufficient progesterone production, which can prevent the proper implantation of an embryo.

Related Pages[edit]