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Mechanism of ovulation
1Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk.
Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America
|March 1, 1992
Summary
This article explains the pelvic clock, a key regulator of ovarian function and the menstrual cycle, crucial for understanding infertility and reproductive health. It details how hormonal signals control reproductive processes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Normal ovarian physiology is complex, involving intricate regulatory mechanisms.
- Understanding these processes is vital for diagnosing and treating infertility and ovarian dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a fundamental understanding of normal ovarian physiology.
- To elucidate the role of the pelvic clock in regulating reproductive functions.
- To connect normal physiology to pathophysiology and infertility treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways.
- Analysis of the steroidal milieu influencing the menstrual cycle.
- Focus on the 'pelvic clock' as a regulatory model.
Main Results:
- The pelvic clock integrates hypothalamic-pituitary and intraovarian signals.
- Steroidal and nonsteroidal factors orchestrate ovarian function.
- These mechanisms generate the approximately 28-day human menstrual cycle.
Conclusions:
- A thorough grasp of ovarian physiology, particularly the pelvic clock, is essential for addressing infertility.
- Understanding regulatory messages is key to managing ovarian dysfunction.
- This framework aids in reproductive health management and treatment strategies.