Ovulation induction for corpus luteum deficiency

The primary function of the corpus luteum (CL) is to secrete progesterone, which promotes secretory transformation of the endometrium and provides the necessary support for implantation and early pregnancy. The role of the CL in maintaining pregnancy was first documented in 1903 when it was found that pregnancy was terminated by removal of the CL in rabbits.¹ Similarly, in humans, removal of the CL or ovary carrying the CL before 8 weeks of pregnancy was followed by abortion within 4 to 7 days.¹ The abortion was preceded by a fall in plasma progesterone, but could be prevented by parenteral treatment with progesterone after lutectomy.² Normal CL function appears to depend on adequate follicular development. Suboptimal CL function results in inadequate development of secretory endometrium and the clinical entity known as luteal phase deficiency or defect (LPD). This entity has been etiologically implicated in both infertility and habitual abortion. In a recent review, LPD was reported to affect 3% to 20% of infertile patients and 25% to 60% of women with habitual abortion.³