Term Maturation in Natural Cycle
In the natural cycle, the follicular phase must of sufficient length for four reasons:
- The egg must have an adequate time for maturation.
- Endometrium must be exposed to estradiol produced by the follicle long enough to thicken it to optimal size for implantation.
- The dominant follicle must have enough cells to form a competent corpus luteum (yellow body), which will produce progesterone to prepare endometrium for implantation.
- The dominant follicle must become large enough to rupture following gonadotropins surge
In the most fertile age, the optimal duration of the follicular phase is 16.5 days. According to the Term Stimulation theory, the duration of the follicular phase must as close to 16.5 days as possible. Furthermore, the theory suggests that with an advanced age, extending the follicular phase even further, to 17, 18 or even more days may be beneficial.
This can often be accomplished using non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications. But, do not medicate yourself. This is not safe, because you may end up with an ovarian cyst. Always ask your doctor.