Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
luteal phase support
Hormonal supplementation following embryo transfer to maintain pregnancy viability.
Full Definition
Luteal phase support refers to the administration of progesterone and sometimes estrogen following embryo transfer to compensate for inadequate corpus luteum function caused by controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. This supplementation is crucial because COH protocols can disrupt normal luteal phase hormonal production, potentially compromising embryo implantation and early pregnancy maintenance. Support typically continues until the placenta assumes hormone production, usually around 8-12 weeks of pregnancy.
Usage
Usage note: Critical component of IVF cycles; timing and duration vary by protocol.
In Context
- "Luteal phase support with vaginal progesterone pessaries was initiated on the day of embryo transfer." — Post-transfer medication protocol
- "The patient's luteal phase support was discontinued at 10 weeks gestation following normal first-trimester development." — Early pregnancy management notes
Also known as
progesterone supplementation
luteal support
Don't confuse with
ovarian stimulation
trigger injection