What is an Inadequate Luteal Phase?

Inadequate Luteal Phase
Continuum of menstrual cycle disturbances.Notes: On the far left of the continuum is optimal menstrual health, which is characterized by regular ovulatory menstrual cycles that are 26–35 days in length. The subclinical/subtle menstrual cycle disturbances include luteal phase defects and anovulation, which represent the least severe disturbances. Menstrual cycles with a luteal phase defect are ovulatory but characterized by a short luteal phase and/or insufficient progesterone production during the luteal phase. Menstrual cycles in which ovulation does not occur and progesterone concentrations are notably low are called anovulatory cycles. It must be noted that cycles that have a luteal phase defect or are anovulatory frequently appear to be regular cycles due to intermenstrual intervals of normal length. The clinical/severe menstrual cycle disturbances include oligomenorrhea which is characterized by long, inconsistent intermenstrual intervals and amenorrhea, the most severe menstrual cycle disturbance, which is characterized by the absence of menses for at least 3 months. Current perspectives on the etiology and manifestation of the "silent" component of the Female Athlete Triad. Mallinson RJ, De Souza MJ - International journal of women's health (2014). Not Altered. CC.

Inadequate luteal phase is a condition which happens if the ovaries do not release enough progesterone, or if the lining of the uterus doesn’t respond to the hormone.

What is the Pathology of Inadequate Luteal Phase?

The pathology of inadequate luteal phase is:

-Etiology: The cause of inadequate luteal phase is anorexia or endometriosis

-Genes involved: None.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to inadequate luteal phase are: diminished FSH secretion in the early follicular phase is induced by administration of porcine follicular fluid rich in inhibin led to inadequate luteal progesterone secretion.

-Morphology: The morphology associated with inadequate luteal phase shows abdominal pain.

-Histology: The histology associated with inadequate luteal phase shows small glands.

How does Inadequate Luteal Phase Present?

Patients with inadequate luteal phase typically females of any age. However, progesterone levels drop as women are closer to menopause. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with inadequate luteal phase include spotting, bloating, weight gain, and mood changes.

How is Inadequate Luteal Phase Diagnosed?

Inadequate luteal phase is diagnosed by blood tests for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). 

How is Inadequate Luteal Phase Treated?

Inadequate luteal phase is treated by: clomiphene citrate to stimulate follicular growth, progesterone injection, human chorionic gonadotropin to help ovulation.  

What is the Prognosis of Inadequate Luteal Phase?

The prognosis of inadequate luteal phase is good. No morbidity or mortality has been associated with this condition.

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Last updated on May 26, 2022