Objective The purpose of this study was to construct a rat model of luteal phase defect ( LPD) with mifepristone ( RU486 ) and investigate the improving effect of Bushen Zhuyun Recipe ( BZR ) on the gonad axis morphology of the LPD rat . Meth ods We established rat models of LPD by giving RU486 at 1 mL/100 g followed by treatment with BZR at 0.4 (medium dose) or 1.2 mL/100g ( high dose ) .Then we observed the changes of morphology of the hypothalamus pituitary ovary uterus . Results Electron microscopy revealed hypothalamic mitochondria vacuolization , degranulation of rough endoplasmic reticulum , dissolved nuclear membrane , and decreased secretory granules , while light microscopy exhibited slightly reduced density of pituitary cells , karyopyknosis of some of the cells ,and cytoplasmic vacuolization in the model rats .Electron microscopy also showed obvious shrinkage of cell nuclei , chromatin condensation , disordered cell arrangement , swelling mitochondrial cavity , and formation of vacuoles in the pituitary anterior lobe, while light microscopy also manifested increased ovarian follicular atresia , reduced granule cell layers and corpora lutea , thinned endometrial layers , decreased uterine glands of the tube wall , reduced glandular cavity , and increased interstitial collagen fibers .After BZR treatment, the number and volume of corpora lutea were increased , the granulosa cell layer and endometrial layer thickened , the number of uterine glands increased , and the gland cavity expanded . Conclusion The axes of the hypothalamus , pituitary, uterus,and o -varian were morphologically changed in the RU 486-induced rat models of LPD, while BZR could improve these changes .