Photo Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health; Getty Images Fact checked by Khara ScheppmannFact checked by Khara Scheppmann Key Takeaways The luteal phase, which starts after ovulation, is a critical part of the menstrual cycle where progesterone levels rise to prepare the uterus for a possible pregnancy. During the luteal phase, people may experience PMS symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and fatigue. A TikTok video went viral after a guy asked his audience to explain what “the luteal phase” means. Some people mistook it as a term in astrology, but it’s actually referring to a period in the 28-day menstrual cycle, when women may feel anxious and lethargic.

The luteal phase follows the follicular phase and lasts from day 1 to 14 of the cycle. The follicular phase is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries, which are small sacs containing immature eggs. These follicles are stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and each follicle contains a single egg.

If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone levels drop, and the uterine lining sheds, marking the beginning of menstruation. This process is known as the luteal phase. The luteal phase is a crucial part of the menstrual cycle, lasting approximately 14 days. It is characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, which can cause a range of physical and emotional changes. These changes can be attributed to the fluctuating progesterone and estrogen levels.

The luteal phase is the second half of the menstrual cycle, lasting approximately 14 days. It begins after ovulation and ends with the onset of menstruation. During this phase, the body produces progesterone, a hormone that prepares the uterus for a potential pregnancy. The luteal phase is often associated with emotional and physical changes, such as mood swings, fatigue, bloating, and breast tenderness.

These symptoms can be attributed to the underlying hormonal imbalances that are often present in individuals with PCOS.