Synopsis Luteal phase support improves the outcome measures of assisted reproductive technologies. Various pharmacological measures can be employed to attain luteal phase support. This article highlights the pathophysiology of luteal phase defect and the role of luteal phase support to enhance fertility in assisted reproductive technology. Introduction The luteal phase occurs between ovulation and the establishment of pregnancy or the onset of menses.
It is characterized by continuous progesterone production from the corpus luteum, which is essential to maintain the viability of intrauterine pregnancy until a luteo-placental shift occurs. Endogenous progesterone production is extremely important for the maintenance of functional secretory endometrium, normal embryo implantation, and growth. Inadequacy in luteal production of progesterone may lead to early loss of pregnancy or…
