4/4 The menstrual cycle. The luteal phase
Our series of articles on the menstrual cycle is coming to an end. After menstruation, the follicular phase and ovulation, today we’re looking at the final phase of the female cycle, the luteal phase.
This period falls between ovulation and the next period of the following cycle. It’s also the phase most often marked by the famous PMS, or premenstrual syndrome.
Short luteal phase, long luteal phase, what is the duration of the luteal phase? What symptoms can be felt during this period of the cycle? What about general mood, energy, libido, or even pain? With this last in-depth article, Louloucup wanted to provide you with the maximum information on the hormonal and female cycle. We dove together for four weeks into the discovery of your body, your hormones, and this amazing and fascinating cyclical phenomenon. Find our three other articles dedicated to the menstrual cycle at the bottom of the article.
In this article, you’ll find:
I – The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle
Let's revisit the luteal phase together. This phase occurs right after ovulation and generally lasts about 14 days for a 28-day cycle. It can last from 10 to 18 days in most cases, depending on the cycle length.
The luteal phase can take two completely different paths, depending on whether fertilization occurs or not:
- that is, implantation of the fertilised egg in the uterine cavity, the first stage in the development of the embryo and therefore of a pregnancy,
- either the breakdown of the unfertilized egg.
In both cases, it’s during the luteal phase that the endometrium, or uterine lining, thickens to receive a fertilized egg for implantation.
If no implantation occurs, this process stops around day 20. The body understands that no fertilization has taken place. The cycle ends and the body then prepares to shed the lining that had developed. A new period then begins.
The luteal phase is also called the progestative phase.
II – Questions / answers about the luteal phase
✤ What exactly happens during the luteal phase?
You’ve probably gathered by now that the female cycle is governed by hormones. These directly influence the behavior of cells, the ovaries and the uterus. Over an average 28-day cycle in a woman with no particular issues, here’s exactly what happens during the luteal phase:
- The egg has been released from its follicle during ovulation and is waiting to be fertilized by a potential sperm. The ovarian follicle that ruptured still has an important role; it’s called the corpus luteum. It secretes a key hormone: progesterone.
- Progesterone has a direct impact on the endometrium. It thickens to better welcome a fertilized egg.
- As the days go by, if no fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum breaks down, causing hormone levels to drop and triggering a new period.
- Conversely, if fertilization does occur, the corpus luteum helps ensure proper implantation of the embryo.
✤ What is the corpus luteum?
The corpus luteum plays the leading role during the luteal phase. It’s simply the mature follicle we mentioned earlier in the follicular phase. It has matured and released a viable egg ready to be fertilized at ovulation. But the role of this sac doesn’t end there!
The Graafian follicle, once transformed into the corpus luteum, measures about 20 mm. It’s named for its yellow pigment, lutein. The corpus luteum creates a welcoming environment to help implantation succeed. Its role at the start of pregnancy is therefore essential.
At the very beginning of pregnancy, the corpus luteum does not break down and remains active near the embryo, secreting progesterone in particular. It does not self-destruct thanks to the action of human chorionic gonadotropin. This hormone is produced by the embryo.
Sometimes, the corpus luteum does not regress as expected and may even grow. Gynecologists then refer to a corpus luteum cyst. This is usually eliminated in the following cycle and everything returns to normal.
✤ What are the symptoms during the luteal phase?
During the luteal phase, your breasts may feel more swollen than usual. This is due to high levels of estrogen and progesterone. Your body temperature is also slightly higher than normal. You may experience cravings and some unusual food urges.
At the start of this phase, just after ovulation, your discharge may be heavy, clear and watery. Cervical mucus is abundant to allow sperm to pass through.
Headaches, mood swings, low mood, anxiety – the list can be long!
Check out our article dedicated to the issues you may face during the luteal phase and solutions to help you cope with premenstrual syndrome.
Louloucup recommends…
✤ What does the term luteal insufficiency mean?
Luteal insufficiency, or a short luteal phase, occurs when the menstrual cycle is short or too short. In a cycle that is too short (less than 28 days), the level of progesterone needed for proper implantation of the fertilised egg in the endometrium is not reached. The chances of becoming pregnant are therefore lower. The uterus is not sufficiently prepared or receptive.
Also, when progesterone levels are too low, the risk of miscarriage increases.
Progesterone creams or taking vitamin C are a few options that may help lengthen the luteal phase. It’s always best to discuss this with your doctor.
✤ What factors can disrupt the luteal phase?
The luteal phase can be disrupted by external factors such as stress, diet, exercise or sleep. Hypothyroidism or PCOS can also be very likely causes. Finally, be aware that after age 35, female fertility declines.
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