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Luteal Phase - What It Is and It's Relation to Pregnancy
A menstrual cycle consists of 3 phases namely ovulatory, luteal and follicular. Each phase of the menstrual cycle has its own importance in fertilizing the ovum and making you pregnant. If you aren’t pregnant, it also sheds the unused endometrial lining at the termination of the cycle. This article is about the Luteal phase and its relation to pregnancy.
What is Luteal Phase?
The period between ovulation and the beginning of the next menstrual cycle is called Luteal Phase. The follicle gets converted to corpus leteum during this phase. Corpus Leteum is the structure which produces high amounts of luteal phase progesterone and some oestrogen also. These luteal phase hormones play an important role in pregnancy.
If you have a normal menstrual cycle of about 25-28 days, the luteal phase will last for about 12-14 days. But if you have a menstrual cycle lesser than 25 days, the luteal phase can be shorter.
But can you get pregnant during the luteal phase? Yes, you can. Since the luteal phase is after ovulation, you have a very real chance of getting pregnant.
Why is Luteal Phase Important for Pregnancy?
The luteal phase is the period between ovulation and menstruation. Therefore, the health and length of luteal phase will speak a lot regarding your fertility.
1. Impact of the Luteal Phase's Length On Pregnancy?
If your period of luteal phase is less than ten days, then you may find it hard to become pregnant. The reason behind this is that if your corpus leteum weakens and dies in 9 days, ceasing the luteal phase hormones production, then your uterus starts shredding instantaneously, leaving no time for the fertilized ovum to move to the fallopian tube to the ovary and get implanted to the uterus lining.
If your luteal phase is short, you will not get pregnant even if the ovum gets fertilized because you will get your period before the embryo can stick to the uterus lining.
2. Impact of The Luteal Phase's Health On Pregnancy?
Sometimes, even if the duration of the Luteal phase is normal, your body produces less amount of progesterone during this phase. This is also a problem. A sufficient quantity of progesterone is essential to ensure the healthy thickness of the uterus lining. Low amount of progesterone results in a uterus lining that is not healthy enough to sustain a pregnancy.
Therefore, it is important to have a Luteal Phase that is of normal length and is healthy as well.
How to Calculate Luteal Phase of a Menstrual Cycle?
Here are some ways to calculate the length of Luteal Phase:
A hormone-specific blood test can determine the accurate length of your luteal phase of menstrual cycle.
You can also track your menstrual cycle for approximately 6 months. Observe the patterns of your phases of the menstrual cycle to calculate an approximate length of the luteal phase.
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting: The BBT of your body increases during ovulation and stays high until the onset of your upcoming period. Track the temperature from the starting of the menstrual cycle and observe the rise in BBT. The rise in body temperature is a solid confirmation that you are ovulating.
Formula to calculate the ovulation time during luteal phase:
Day of Ovulation= Length of the Menstrual cycle – Length of Luteal Phase
For instance, assume that for a menstruation cycle that lasts for 29 days, the luteal phase lasts up to 15 days. Assigning these values in the formula,
Day of Ovulation = 29 (Length of the Menstrual cycle) – 15 (Length of Luteal Phase)
Day of Ovulation=14
It implies that the fourteenth day of the menstrual cycle is the day your ovulation occurs.
A prediction kit or calculator for ovulation can also be used to know the day of ovulation and hence the luteal phase.
Body Changes in Luteal Phase
During the Luteal Phase, the upsurge in progesterone levels can result in the following body changes:
Mood swings
Tiredness
Tenderness of nipples and breasts
Bloating
Anxiety
Fluid retention
These changes are bound to happen and do not lower your likelihood of getting pregnant.
What Causes a Short Luteal Phase?
When your body doesn’t produce sufficient progesterone, your luteal phase might end early. The following reasons might be responsible for not producing enough progesterone:
Thyroid disorders
PCOS
Obesity
Excessive exercise
Anorexia (and milder forms of restrictive eating)
Stress
Ageing
How Do You Know That Your Luteal Phase is Short?
You can know that your luteal phase is short by tracking your menstrual cycle. Count the number of days between ovulation and the onset of your next period this will give you the length of the luteal phase.
If your luteal phase lasts for 12 or more days, it is normal. But if your luteal phase lasts less than 10 days, you have low progesterone level. This means that your luteal phase is short.
How Can You Test Your Progesterone Level?
The luteal phase progesterone levels are generally higher than other phases of menstrual cycle. The progesterone level should be tested when it is highest, i.e. in the middle of the luteal phase. The middle of the luteal phase is on the 21st day of a normal 28-day menstrual cycle.
But it is not necessary that you have a typical 28-day menstrual cycle. If you have a 34-day menstrual cycle, with an ovulation on the 22nd day. then if you can your progesterone level tested on day 21, the results might show a very low level of progesterone. But if you test it on the 28th day, your progesterone level may be normal. Hence, if you want to know when to ovulate and the length of your luteal phase, tell your doctor about the right time to test your progesterone levels.
How Can You Increase the Luteal Phase?
Taking the following supplements might help to lengthen the luteal phase:
Vitamin C- It increases fertility in some case where women have short luteal phases.
Progesterone supplementation or cream- Progesterone cream can increase your progesterone levels but you consult your doctor before doing so.
What is a Luteal Phase Defect?
Luteal Phase defect or Luteal insufficiency can be termed as the deficient release of progesterone all through the luteal phase. The insufficiency of progesterone will avoid the thickening of uterus lining that might result in improper embryo plantation. Hence, it reduces the chances of continuing with the pregnancy. However, it is not yet confirmed if luteal phase defect is a reason for infertility.
The Luteal Phase Defect can lead to the following problems:
Improper working of corpus luteum which results in the lesser production of estradiol and progesterone.
The incapability of the uterus lining to react to the normal levels of estradiol and progesterone.
1. Cause of Luteal Phase Defect
The luteal phase defect could happen due to the following reasons:
Defect in the ovulated egg
Breakdown of corpus luteum
Unruptured follicle
Thyroid disorders
Over-exercise
Anorexia
Endometriosis
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Obesity
Hyperprolactinemia
2. Symptoms of Luteal Phase Defect
The symptoms of luteal phase defect are as follows:
Miscarriages
Spotting in between periods
Menstrual cycles way earlier than normal
3. How is the diagnosis of Luteal Phase Defect done
Luteal Phase defect can be diagnosed by getting the following tests done:
Blood tests
It checks the level of
Progesterone that helps in the thickening of the uterus lining.
Follicle simulating hormone that regulates the ovarian function.
Luteinizing hormone that triggers ovulation.
Ultrasound
It helps to find the thickness of the uterus lining. An ultrasound scan can help detect the functioning of the reproductive organs, i.e. uterus, ovaries, cervix and fallopian tube.
Endometrial Biopsy
Get this done at least one or two days before the start of periods. A small sample of your endometrial lining is procured and examined under a microscope to check the lining thickness.
4. Treatment options for Luteal Phase Defect
The treatment of the luteal phase defect depends on the main underlying causes.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: It releases progesterone and triggers ovulation. During this process, the hCG level is given in a single dosage of 10,000 IU or two dosages of 5,000 IU given once in 2 weeks to extend the luteal phase.
Clomiphene Citrate: These are also called human menopausal gonadotropins. These help in stimulating the ovaries to produce more follicles which releases more eggs.
Suppositories: Crinone, a vaginal gel, is used vaginally three times a day. The gel holds a progesterone dosage of 90 mg.
Pill Treatment: Prometrium oral progesterone medicines are administered at a 200 mg dosage a day.
Injections: Intramuscular progesterone is administered with a dose of 25-50 mg per day. The injection uses crystalline and odourless progesterone powder is dissolved in sesame oil.
The luteal phase that lasts around 14 days is the time when the female body prepares the womb for the fertilized ovum. You should have a luteal phase of both sufficient length and health to sustain a pregnancy. You can consult a doctor for mid luteal phase progesterone test to check if everything is normal.
Also Read: LH Surge Read more
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5 Simple Solutions to your Toddler’s Bedtime Problems
Got a nocturnal little one at hand? For some babies, sleeping is a huge task, for others it’s a breeze. Every child's sleep patterns vary, but most kids suffer from one or more sleeping issues as they grow up. Are your baby's sleeping issues keeping you up at night? Let's put an end to your exhaustion by getting to the root of the problem.
Crying out for you, scared of the dark or bad dreams, the cause for sleep-time problems varies for different kids - which one does your darling suffer from?
If we had to broadly look for solutions to bed-time problems then there are a variety of things that can promote sound sleep in toddlers. Snuggling, reading to her, a warm bath or lullabies can help lull your baby in to a peaceful sleep. However, if the problems continue, there are ways to tackle them as suggested by experts.
Toddler Sleep Problems & Their Solutions
1. Sleep Problem: Your child takes forever to fall asleep
Reason: Frequent napping during the day or irregular sleep pattern.
Solution: Having a fixed bed-time for your child is key to forming a habit. If you already have set a pattern or routine, a disruption in that pattern can trigger this problem. Try and fill up your toddler's morning time with activities and set nap time for after lunch, not exceeding two hours.
2. Sleep Problem: Bed-time nightmares and other fears
Reason: Toddlers have an active imagination that is constantly alert to newer things. Anything like an argument overheard or a fear inducing sight, may come back to her in the form of a nightmare.
Solution: Try and avoid books or movies with anything remotely fearful during bedtime. The best thing to do when your child is afraid is to soothe her and give her security.
3. Sleep Problem: Your child wakes up too early
Reason: Toddlers may wake up at dawn, or when any light enters the room.
Sleep Solution: Usually if a child wakes up too early, she may fall asleep again or play on her own till she gets tired again. Keeping a few toys around or a favourite stuffed animal might help occupy her when she wakes up.
4. Sleep Problem: Your baby wakes up to feed all night
Reason: Your baby probably has her schedule mixed up, eating all night but not enough in the day and napping longer in the day but not all night.
Sleep Solution: For newborns, feeding all night long is completely normal but once your baby crosses 4 months, she should ideally be feeding much more in the day and sleeping a lot longer in the night. In the case that your baby is doing the opposite, you need to gradually work on shifting the schedule by shortening her naps and feeding her more in the day. You can read more about phasing out night feeding for babies here.
5. Sleep Problem: Your baby falls asleep only when you hold her
Reason: This problem is called parent sleep association where they baby can't sleep unless there is close contact with the parent. In most cases, the mom is the parent in question.
Sleep Solution: If the baby has a stronger association with you in particular, you could try and get your spouse to handle bedtime routines for a while. Sometimes getting someone else to put your baby to sleep can help fix this problem.
We're sure that no matter what the bed-time issue is that your baby and you are facing, she will eventually outgrow it and learn to treasure her sleep time. The best possible solution for bed-time problems to set schedules that encourage activity during the day so that your little one is tired and sleeps soundly. The right diet will also help a great deal in ensuring that all major functions of the body, including rest, function normally. Read more
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Apple Almond Halwa
This unusual yet delicious halwa is made of fibre-rich apples. Looking at the dish from a nutritional standpoint, it fulfills your daily dose of essential fatty acids by the use of almonds. In addition, we have put in mava, which packs in the punch of milk proteins. This truly makes this halwa an irresistible fruity delight!
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10-15 Minutes
5-7 Minutes
Ingredients
4 grated apples
100g khoya
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp almond powder
5 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp ghee
1/2 tsp elaichi powder
Pinch of kesar
Shredded almonds for garnishing
Method
Step 1
Heat a pan, add ghee n sauté the grated apples it the apple turns soft.
Step 2
Add grated khoya and mix till khoya starts melting.
Step 3
Now add milk, sugar, elaichi powder, almond powder and kesar. Keep stirring till the halwa becomes little thick.
Step 4
After you feel that the consistency has thickened, remove in a bowl and garnish with shredded almonds.
Nutritional Information
Calories
495 k cal
Proteins
17.3 g
Total Fat
55 g
Carbohydrates
169 g
Cholesterol
159 mg
Sodium
149 mg
Potassium
956 mg
Read more
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How to smoothly balance the roles of a wife and a mom
Motherhood gives a new dimension and perspective to life. It is a beautiful extension to the role of a wife. Balancing between the roles of a loving wife and a resopnsible mom is challenging but worthwhile!
Remember mothers that, 'When you are happy, only then can you make your hubby and baby happy!'
Following ways can help you in balancing the two roles smoothly:
1. Time Management
Planning your days, weeks and months in advance can provide you with enough time to enjoy with both hubby and baby. Following a routine with discipline is the key in managing time efficiently.
2. Division of work
'It takes a village to raise a child' is an important saying. Do not take the full load of household chores on your shoulders alone. Delegate and divide the house work with your hubby after careful planning and discussion.
3. Quick Meals
All the cooking including breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks has to be done more quickly to save time and timely attend to your baby's demands of feeding, massage, cuddling, sleeping and playing. On days when the baby can be looked after by others then prepare the dishes that your hubby relishes.
4. Couple Time
When the baby is sleeping or playing then you can engage in 'we time' with your hubby where both of you can have heart to heart discussions, improve your bonding or just relax and spend quality time with each other.
5. Me Time
This is the key to staying focused and content. Whenever possible, do spend some alone time to rejuvenate, focus on all that is happening, pamper yourself, read or just catch up on your precious sleep. When you are relaxed then you will be more productive and energetic.
6. Sharing
Always share your emotions, feelings and thoughts with your hubby and encourage him to do the same. Its important that both of you are on the same page on all important matters. Seek his guidance on issues where you think you need improvement.
7. Deadlines
Maximum work is completed when you have a time limit attached to it. Never crumble under pressure but learn to complete the tasks within a reasonable time frame. Meeting the deadlines will enable you to feel more confident.
8. Working together
Involve your hubby in baby activities like diaper changing, bathing, choosing what to wear and burping. It will bring both of you closer. Whenever you both have different point of views regarding a matter then dicuss it out. Also never play the blame game if anything goes wrong but show accountability for your actions.
Your love for your new bundle of joy is increasing with each passing day. Ensure to express your love for your hubby from time to time to keep the fire of love alive! Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 8 months
11 hours ago
Q. I took a pregnancy test just before my period start date and I found a faint second line in the test... Am I pregnant??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. it is very faint line better you get beta hCG test ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Vandana Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. I'm currently 37 weeks 4 days my baby weight is 2.4kg whether it is normal?
Vandana Sharma
Nutritionist
10 hours ago
A. Hello mam that is fine , and this varies as it depends o various factors as well too , so avoid stress, take rest and and also healthy diet as well
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. what could be the baby weight when we are in 37 week 4 days? what could be average weight before labour?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. there is lot of individual variation it can be around 3 kgs ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. hlo plzz tell me gripe water de sakte hai baby ko Mera baby 15 months ka hogya hai ???
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
9 hours ago
A. nahi.
its not nessesary to feed it.
ur baby is 15 month okd, give all family food in roughly mashed form, include seasonal fruits n veggies.
t..c
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
Am 25 weeks pregnant with Twins, and cervix of 25mm. got cerclage done at 21 weeks. please suggest precautions so that I can smoothly continue ue my pregnancy and avoid premises.
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
10 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and please have coconut water on daily basis and also have more green leaves vegetables fruits and dairy products in diet and also home made food. Also go on regular check ups. Also be happy and stress free .
Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
9 hours ago
Q. what does this mean
"There is a funneling of internal os with effective cervical length (measures ~2.8 cm on TVS) "
in 29 weeks 5 days pregnancy?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. small cervical length ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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