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 is causing period delay? Or are there any 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 may indicate 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 the basal body temperature, it suggests luteal phase insufficiency.
3. Blood Progesterone Concentration Test: Blood progesterone concentration is 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 luteal dysfunction.
Women with luteal phase insufficiency can undergo hormone testing. Additionally, in your case, an ultrasound can be performed to monitor follicular development. Basal body temperature testing is affected by many factors and often yields inaccurate results. If you have not successfully conceived within six months of trying to conceive, it is recommended to seek further medical evaluation.