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Luteal Phase

By Rachel Gurevich, About.com

Updated May 19, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: The portion of your menstrual cycle that occurs after ovulation but before the first day of your next menstrual cycle is called the luteal phase. On average, the luteal phase lasts between 10 to 14 days. If the luteal phase is less than 10 days, this may indicate a fertility problem, sometimes referred to as a luteal phase defect.
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