The Luteal Phase
The Luteal Phase
This phase starts immediately after ovulation – being day 15 within a regular 28-day menstrual cycles.
- After ovulation, the empty follicle remains in the ovary and turns into a corpus luteum, this is a temporary endocrine structure of the collapsed follicle.
- The corpus luteum lasts for two weeks, releasing steady but increasing amounts of progesterone and oestrogen, which thicken the lining of the uterus, in preparation for implantation of a fertilised egg .
- The progesterone also thickens the cervical mucus to prevent any sperm or bacteria entering the uterus.
