Luteal Phase Defect: Symptoms, Timing & What to Do

Question
Hi- I am in Nashville
We have been trying for another baby for about 6 months. So far no luck. I used the ClearBlue Easy Digital smiley OPK last month. Just before I think I am going to ovulate I start getting heavy dull aching. Almost like a UTI.  I got the positive OPK on day 12 and 13 so I guessed ovulation around day 13 or 14. Then around day 21 cramps start. Spotting is limited to just on toilet paper when I check for it. then I start almost like clockwork on day 25 or 26. I am wondering if my body is not producing enough progesterone and my period is being triggered early to cause the cramping. If I don't count from the cramping and light spotting my luteal phase would be 11 or 12 days but from the cramping and spotting would only be 7 or 8 days.

Does the cramping and spotting count as anything? Why woud my bdy be preparing for a period so many days before it actually starts? What should I have done to see if there is a problem?

Thanks!
Carrie

Answer
Hello Carrie from the U.S.,

There is certainly a possibility that you could have a luteal phase defect considering that your luteal phase is short.  You are correct on all counts in your analysis.  The treatment would be to add progesterone after ovulation to support the luteal phase.  The luteal phase should be very consistent and almost like clockwork.  It should be 14 days long from the point of ovulation.  You might want to go see a fertility specialist to have some testing done.

Good Luck,

Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.

for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf