Luteal Phase Defect: Is Your Luteal Phase Normal? | Understanding Progesterone and Ovulation

Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down the science and misconceptions surrounding the luteal phase and luteal phase defects. She explains what a normal luteal phase looks like, what it truly means to have a luteal phase defect, and why progesterone alone is not usually the root cause. Dr. Crawford walks viewers through how ovulation actually happens, why tracking ovulation accurately matters, and the real hormonal and structural issues that can shorten the luteal phase or cause spotting.

Questions Answered:

What is a normal luteal phase?

Do you have a luteal phase defect, and what does that mean?

What is the luteal phase in relation to the menstrual cycle?

How does the menstrual cycle work, particularly regarding follicles and ovulation?

What roles do FSH, estrogen, and LH play in the menstrual cycle?

What happens to the follicle after ovulation?

What does the corpus luteum do during the luteal phase?

How does progesterone production work during the luteal phase?

How is the corpus luteum sustained if pregnancy occurs?

Why is the luteal phase important for implantation?

What is a luteal phase defect and how is it diagnosed?

What the main causes of a luteal phase defect?

What should someone do if they have a short luteal phase or luteal phase spotting?

How can treatment and lifestyle changes help with luteal phase problems?