Patient's question:
I went to the hospital last month and found out that I have luteal phase defect. But my periods are always delayed, usually by 3 to 5 days. I thought luteal phase defect would cause periods to come early, not delayed? Why is it that in my case, the luteal phase defect leads to period delay? Or are there other issues?Doctor's answer:
Luteal Phase Insufficiency Examination:1. Basal Body Temperature: During the secretion of progesterone by the corpus luteum, there is a significant increase in hypothalamic temperature. If a woman exhibits a slow rise in temperature and a dip in the high-temperature phase, it suggests a luteal phase dysfunction.
2. Endometrial Tissue Imaging: The endometrial tissue is typically examined during the mid-luteal phase, which is the time for blastocyst implantation. If a woman's endometrial tissue imaging shows a significant discrepancy from her basal body temperature, it indicates luteal phase insufficiency.
3. Checking Serum Progesterone Levels: Serum progesterone levels are one of the indicators for assessing luteal function. If the progesterone level is above 10 ng/ml during the mid-luteal phase, the luteal function is normal. In other cases, it is considered abnormal.
Women with luteal phase insufficiency can undergo hormone tests. Additionally, in your case, an ultrasound can be performed to observe the development of follicles. Basal body temperature testing is affected by many factors and often yields inaccurate results. If you have not conceived after trying to get pregnant for six months, it is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination.