Nov 15 2008
the first blood test
The first blood i will be undergoing in a few hours is the blood test that’s taken on the 21st day of a woman’s cycle. This explains why I need it :
On the twenty-first day of your cycle, your progesteron levels may be tested. The body increases its production of progesterone after releasing an egg, so a test will confirm whether ovulation has taken place.
A blood test around this day will verify whether a sufficient level of progesterone exists in order to maintain a sufficient luteal phase. The luteal phase begins the day after ovulation and lasts 12 to 16 days, during which time progesterone levels rise in order to provide a fertile environment for the egg.
In addition, a blood test may also be conducted in order to determine whether you have any thyroid problems that might be affecting your chances of getting pregnant.
This is supposed to be a fasting blood test. I am already starving!
Good article.
The luteal phase in a woman is always constant. It is 14 days. The follicular phase is responsible for the difference in the days of the cycle.
For example,
In a 28-day cycle:
Follicular Phase: 14 days
Luteal Phase: 14 days
In a 30-day cycle:
Follicular Phase: 16 days
Luteal Phase: 14 days (always constant).