Luteal phase defect is associated with impaired VEGF mRNA expression in the secretory phase endometrium.

Endometrial morphology and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was examined in the endometria of women with history of recurrent miscarriage (RM group) and of fertile women without history of gynecological diseases (control group). Luteal phase defect (LPD) was diagnosed in 42% cases in the RM group vs. 13% in controls. Endometrial VEGF mRNA expression was lower in LPD endometria compared to mature endometria. In conclusion, LPD in non-pregnant endometrium is associated with angiogenic abnormalities and may cause pregnancy complications.