What is "luteal phase"

n. The latter part of the menstrual cycle, that occurs after ovulation, in which the corpus luteum secretes progesterone to prepare the endometrium for the implantation of an embryo.

n. the second half of the menstrual cycle after ovulation; the corpus luteum secretes progesterone which prepares the endometrium for the implantation of an embryo; if fertilization does not occur then menstrual flow begins [syn: secretory phase]

The luteal phase is the latter phase of the menstrual cycle (in humans and a few other animals) or the earlier phase of the estrous cycle (in other placental mammals). It begins with the formation of the corpus luteum and ends in either pregnancy or luteolysis. The main hormone associated with this stage is progesterone, which is significantly higher during the luteal phase than other phases of the cycle. The opposite of the luteal phase, the rest of the two weeks, is called the follicular phase.