Which of the following is recognized as a phase in the menstrual cycle?

The luteal phase is a significant part of the menstrual cycle, characterized by the presence of the corpus luteum, which forms from the follicle after ovulation. During this phase, which typically lasts about 14 days, the body prepares for a possible pregnancy by increasing the secretion of progesterone, along with some estrogen. These hormones help to thicken the uterine lining, making it suitable for implantation of a fertilized egg.

While the menstrual cycle indeed has multiple recognized phases—such as the follicular phase, the menstrual phase, and the ovulatory phase—the luteal phase plays a crucial role particularly in the menstrual cycle's hormonal and physiological changes that prepare the body for potential pregnancy. This phase ends either in pregnancy or menstruation if fertilization does not occur, making it an essential part of the cycle.

The other phases mentioned are also important, but the designation of the luteal phase specifically encompasses the actions of the corpus luteum and the hormonal shifts that guide the next steps in the cycle.