The Luteal Phase

The Luteal phase describes the period of time during a woman’s menstrual cycle that is calculated from the day after ovulation, running through the remainder of the monthly cycle. It lasts approximately 12-16 days and needs at least 10 days for an implantation to happen. The hormone progesterone plays a major role during this phase and is at its highest peak. Progesterone can also cause all of your PMS symptoms like moodiness, irritability, along with tenderness of the breasts and nipples.

During the Phase

During this phase the main issue inside the woman’s body is the production of the progesterone hormone which increases her body temperature. It’s important to know that a higher body temperature is crucial when in the maturing stages of a fertilized egg, if conception has taken place. The corpus luteum is what actually issues forth the progesterone to “heat up” the body and the process is also known as the L-Phase because of the dominant role played by the corpus luteum.

Problems?

Even if you don’t ovulate at the same time every month, knowing the length of your Luteal Phase allows you to calculate exactly when your menstrual period is due. Short Luteal Phases can cause serious fertility problems so if you are charting your menstrual cycle and see problems during this phase, contact your doctor immediately.