Luteal Phase Deficiency- does it exist? Can it be treated?
Background: Progesterone, released by the corpus luteum after ovulation, is essential for implantation and maintenance of pregnancy until placental function is established. Luteal phase deficiency (LPD) has been described as a condition in which a female’s own progesterone is not sufficient either for normal implantation or to sustain an otherwise normal pregnancy. LPD theoretically may be associated with: Shortened menstrual cycles Premenstrual spotting Infertility First trimester pregnancy loss Luteal phase function may be impacted by the following medical conditions: Ovarian aging Anorexia, eating disorders, or significant weight loss Recovery from hypothalamic amenorrhea Thyroid dysfunction Hyperprolactinemia Obesity PCOS Endometriosis Controversy exists Read more »
