Our cycle is a beautiful thing. It is an indicator of our overall health. It has 4 different phases each with their own unique roles. The menstrual cycle phase, which is days 1-5 is when menstruation occurs as the uterine lining sheds. The follicular phase around days 6-14 is when the follicles in the ovaries mature, leading to an increase in estrogen. Next comes ovulation around day 14 when an egg is released from the ovary, typically the most fertile period. Finally is the luteal phase, generally from days 15-28, when the empty follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, producing progesterone. If no pregnancy occurs, hormone levels drop, and the cycle begins again.

Understanding these phases helps in natural family planning and fertility awareness, as well as clues us into our own health. When one of these phases is off, it can be an indicator that some specific TLC for our system is needed.

When the luteal phase is off, it can wreak havoc on our system. This could possibly mean you are dealing with something called Luteal phase defect (LPD). LPD is a condition that affects the menstrual cycle in women. The luteal phase is the second half of the menstrual cycle, occurring after ovulation and before the onset of menstruation. It is during this phase that the corpus luteum, a structure formed from the follicle that releases an egg during ovulation, produces progesterone! Progesterone plays a crucial role in preparing the uterus for a potential pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining.

In a typical menstrual cycle, the luteal phase is typically around 12 to 14 days. Luteal phase defect occurs when the luteal phase is shorter than this, usually less than 10 days. A shortened luteal phase can lead to insufficient production of progesterone, which may result in difficulty sustaining a pregnancy.

So how do you if you could be experiencing LPD? Here are some common features and characteristics of LPD:

1. Shortened Luteal Phase: The luteal phase is consistently shorter than the normal range.

2. Low Progesterone Levels: Insufficient production of progesterone during the luteal phase. A simple blood draw after ovulation can let you know if this is a factor or not.

3. Difficulty Sustaining Pregnancy: LPD is often associated with recurrent early pregnancy loss (miscarriage) because the uterine lining may not be adequately prepared for implantation and early embryo development.

4. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Women with LPD may experience irregular menstrual cycles, including variability in cycle length.

But why does this defect occur? The exact cause of luteal phase defect can vary and may include factors such as:

- Hormonal Imbalances: Disruptions in the normal hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle.

- Structural Issues: Abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries.

- Stress and Lifestyle Factors: High levels of stress, excessive exercise, or significant weight loss can contribute.

- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS may be more prone to luteal phase defects.

Diagnosis of luteal phase defect is typically based on tracking menstrual cycles, measuring basal body temperature, and assessing hormone levels. If you are concerned that you may be experiencing luteal phase defect, reach out to our team and we would love to come alongside you and support your healing and wellbeing!