During the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle, which hormones are known to increase?

During the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy after ovulation. The key hormones that play a significant role during this phase are progesterone and luteinizing hormone (LH).

The corpus luteum, which forms from the remnants of the follicle after ovulation, secretes progesterone. This hormone is crucial for maintaining the uterine lining, making it suitable for a fertilized egg to implant. As progesterone levels rise, they induce changes in the endometrium and help sustain early pregnancy if fertilization occurs.

LH, which surges prior to ovulation to trigger the release of the egg, does have a presence during the luteal phase, but primarily it is the maintenance function of progesterone that is emphasized. While LH levels may not be as high as they were during the ovulatory phase, it does not drop to negligible levels, as it plays a role in supporting the corpus luteum.

Other hormones such as estrogen also have roles in this phase, but it is not the primary focus when discussing the significant increase in hormones during the luteal phase. The combination of rising progesterone, supported by LH, allows for the necessary changes in preparation for a potential pregnancy.