1. The second half of the menstrual cycle after ovulation; the corpus luteum secretes progesterone which prepares the endometrium for the implantation of an embryo; if fertilization does not occur then menstrual flow begins
   "The luteal phase typically lasts about 14 days";
   - secretory phase

Derived forms: luteal phases

Type of: phase, stage

Part of: menstrual cycle

Encyclopedia: Luteal phase