How to Treat a Luteal Phase Defect Naturally

A luteal phase defect shortens the period of time after ovulation to the point of infertility, usually less than 10 days. This makes menstruation happen earlier than it should, which doesn't allow time for a fertilized egg to implant. Usually, this condition is treated with hormone shots in a medical setting. Some women with luteal phase defect have taken herbs and vitamins for their condition. The results indicate it's possible to treat luteal phase defect naturally.

Things You'll Need

• Vitamin C
• Vitex tincture

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Instructions

• 1

  Eat at least five servings of tofu, wheat germ or kelp daily for at least two months. These foods are naturally high in vitamin B-6, which aids in the production of progesterone. A deficiency in progesterone levels is a common cause of luteal phase defect.

• 2

  Take 40 drops of vitex tincture once daily for a minimum of three months. Vitex, also known as monk's pepper, is an herb that seems to reduce prolactin and increase luteinizing hormone. This can help treat hyperprolactinemia, which can cause luteal phase defect.

• 3

  Take 750 mg of a vitamin C supplement daily before breakfast for a period of six months. A study published in the August 2003 issue of "Fertility and Sterility" by doctors H. Henmi, T. Endo and Y. Kitajima found a significant increase in percentage of pregnancy in the group of women taking this dosage of vitamin C versus the control group.

• 4

  Get acupuncture treatments once a week. Acupuncture helps your body maintain the balance between prolactin and prostaglandin. Seek out an acupuncturist who has experience with treating luteal phase defect.