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The Luteal Phase (what you're rarely told)

  • Writer: Dr. Surjana
    Dr. Surjana
  • Aug 5
  • 2 min read

In the second half of your cycle - after ovulation - your body turns inward. This is the luteal phase, the bridge between ovulation and either menstruation or early pregnancy. It is here that implantation takes place… or doesn't. 

 

You've likely learned to be aware of how long this phase is, but length alone is not the full measure of luteal health. A “normal” 12–14 day luteal phase can still be less than optimal if the internal environment is off. I have seen many women, told that “everything looks fine,” still struggle to conceive because the subtle needs of this phase were left unmet.

 

Here is why the luteal phase matters:

 

Progesterone stability - After ovulation, progesterone should rise and remain steady in order to maintain a thick, receptive uterine lining. Fluctuations can make implantation more difficult.

Blood sugar balance - Unstable glucose can disrupt hormone production, heighten inflammation, and impact the body’s ability to sustain a pregnancy.

Nervous system state - Persistent stress signals can suppress reproductive function and prevent the body from shifting into the “receive and hold” state.

Uterine warmth - In East Asian medicine, the uterus is seen as a warm, fertile nest. Cold exposure ~ from sitting in wet swimsuits, exposure to cold water, or an excess of raw/cold foods - can slow circulation in the womb. A warm uterus supports healthy blood flow, clear hormonal signaling, and optimal implantation potential.

 

We can't properly support the luteal phase by simply adding a single supplement or hoping for the best. It's important to intentionally create an environment - both physically and emotionally - where the body feels safe enough to welcome and hold new life.

 

In Infinite Fertility, we strengthen this phase through targeted nutrition, gentle lifestyle shifts, and cycle-specific nervous system regulation. The result is steadier progesterone patterns, improved implantation rates, and a deeper trust that your body knows how to do exactly what it was designed to do.

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© 2025 by Dr. Jennifer Surjana, DACM, L.Ac.

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