luteal phase

Wiktionary

1. n. The latter part of the menstrual cycle, that occurs after ovulation, in which the corpus luteum secretes progesterone to prepare the endometrium for the implantation of an embryo.

WordNet 3.0

1. n. 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