Luteal phase support in ART treatments

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Gynecology

Background:

• The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle involves episodic secretion of estradiol (E) and progesterone (P) by the corpus luteum (CL).
• Corpus luteum steroidogenesis relies on sustained tonic luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the episodic nature of luteal phase hormone secretion and its dependence on LH pulses.
• To clarify the significance of progesterone levels during the mid-luteal phase.

Main Methods:

• Review of established knowledge on menstrual cycle endocrinology.
• Analysis of hormonal secretion patterns during the luteal phase, referencing key studies.

Main Results:

• Estradiol and progesterone secretion by the CL occurs in an episodic manner.
• The CL's function is dependent on continuous LH secretion.
• Luteolysis is observed following GnRH analogue administration or withdrawal.
• Progesterone levels peak around 8 days post-LH surge.
• Episodic hormone secretion correlating with LH pulses can lead to normal variations in mid-luteal progesterone levels.

Conclusions:

• The episodic nature of hormone secretion is a normal characteristic of the luteal phase.
• Variations in mid-luteal progesterone levels are expected within a normal menstrual cycle due to pulsatile LH secretion.