Clinical concept

Luteal phase

The second half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation, when progesterone rises.

The second half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation, when progesterone rises.

The luteal phase follows ovulation. The follicle that released the egg becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to prepare the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy.

If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone falls and menstruation begins, starting a new cycle.

Related terms

Follicular phase

The first half of the menstrual cycle, when a follicle matures and estrogen rises.

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from the ovary, usually around the middle of the menstrual cycle.

Progesterone

A hormone released after ovulation that prepares and protects the uterine lining.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus that thickens and sheds across the menstrual cycle.

Menstrual cycle

The roughly monthly hormonal cycle that prepares the body for a possible pregnancy.

Source

Office on Women’s Health: Your Menstrual Cycle

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