LUTEAL Meaning and
Definition
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Luteal is an adjective that pertains to, or is associated with, the luteal phase. In medical and scientific contexts, the term "luteal" commonly refers to the second half of the menstrual cycle in females. The menstrual cycle is divided into two main phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The luteal phase begins after ovulation occurs, when an egg is released from the ovary, and lasts until the start of the next menstrual cycle.
During the luteal phase, the ruptured follicle, from which the egg was released, starts to form a structure called the corpus luteum, which secretes hormones such as progesterone and estrogen. These hormones play crucial roles in preparing the uterus for potential implantation and supporting early pregnancy, should fertilization occur.
Outside of reproductive biology, the term "luteal" may also be used in reference to the corpus luteum or its characteristics. For instance, a luteal cyst can be a cyst that forms within the corpus luteum. Additionally, luteal phase defect is a condition in which there is an inadequate production of progesterone during the luteal phase, potentially leading to fertility issues or early pregnancy loss.
Overall, "luteal" primarily concerns the physiological processes and events that occur during the second half of the menstrual cycle in females, and is often associated with reproductive health and fertility.
Common Misspellings for LUTEAL
Etymology of LUTEAL
The word "luteal" comes from the Latin word "luteus", meaning "yellow". It refers to the yellowish corpus luteum, a mass of cells that forms in the ovary after the release of an egg during ovulation. The corpus luteum plays a crucial role in the production of progesterone, a hormone required for the maintenance of pregnancy. Therefore, "luteal" is used to describe anything related to the corpus luteum or the stage of the menstrual cycle characterized by its presence.
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