Is a 12 day luteal phase ok?

[reelala]

Hello ladies! I am hoping you can give some wisdom here.

We are going to ttc in August and I just completed my second month of charting. It looks like I have a 12-13 day luteal phase.  The 13 doesn't really worry me but the 12 does.  Is 12 days long enough for successful implementation? Also, is there anything I can do to make my luteal phase more viable?

[Jaimee]

Welcome!  Yes a 12 day luteal phase (that does not include any days of spotting) is just fine.  I have an average of a 10 day LP and have conceived three times without trouble.  It seems most resources I've read indicate an issue with an LP less than 10 days.  Much depends on when the embryo implants, too, which could be as early as 6 DPO or as late as 12 DPO (in which case you could have a chemical pregnancy).  Your LP will likely only vary by about 2 days cycle to cycle so if it's sometimes 13 days, then it is likely that you have either an 11-13 day LP or 12-14 LP, all of which are fine.

I don't think you need to worry about your LP, but you can supplement with vitamin B6 and B-rich foods as well as taking a look at your exercise routine.  Progesterone is stored in fat so if you are under or overweight your LP can be affected.  Sometimes increased calorie/fat intake and toning down your exercise can help if you're underweight.  Alternatively, making healthy changes in your diet to reduce calorie/fat intake and starting a moderate exercise routine can help if you're overweight.

Good luck!