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The short luteal phase and infertility
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|November 1, 1984
Summary
A short luteal phase, defined as 11 days or less, was investigated in women with and without infertility. The study found no increased frequency of short luteal phases in women experiencing unexplained infertility, challenging previous assumptions.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Human reproduction
- Infertility research
Background:
- The luteal phase is crucial for successful implantation and pregnancy.
- A short luteal phase has been hypothesized as a cause of infertility.
- Previous studies suggested a higher prevalence of short luteal phases in infertile women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of luteal phase length in women with unexplained infertility compared to healthy controls.
- To determine if short luteal phases occur more frequently in women with infertility.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 187 women with regular, ovulatory menstrual cycles.
- 95 women had unexplained infertility, and 92 were healthy volunteers.
- Luteal phase length was defined and compared between the two groups.
Main Results:
- A short luteal phase (≤11 days) was observed in 9% of the infertile group.
- A short luteal phase was observed in 8% of the healthy volunteer group.
- The prevalence of short luteal phases was not significantly different between infertile and healthy women.
Conclusions:
- Short luteal phases do not occur more frequently in women with unexplained infertility.
- The findings challenge the direct association between short luteal phases and unexplained infertility.
- Further research may be needed to explore other factors contributing to infertility.