What’s luteal

Okay so, the luteal phase is the second half of your menstrual cycle, after you ovulate and before your period starts.

Your body does so much work during this phase! After your ovary releases an egg (that's ovulation), the follicle where the egg was changes into something called the corpus luteum. This little thing starts making a lot of progesterone, which is a hormone that helps thicken the lining of your uterus. It's basically preparing a comfy little nest in case the egg gets fertilized and decides to hang out.

You might notice some changes during this time, thanks to all those hormones. Common things include breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, or feeling a little more tired. These are all part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), and they usually chill out once your period actually starts. If the egg doesn't get fertilized and implant, your hormone levels drop, and that tells your uterus it's time to shed its lining, which is your period!