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Return of ovarian function following spontaneous abortion
M L Donnet1, P W Howie, M Marnie
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK.
Clinical Endocrinology
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Women rapidly return to ovulation after spontaneous miscarriage, with endocrine function showing some disturbance in the first cycle. Early contraception is advised for those avoiding conception due to the swift return to fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Postpartum physiology
Background:
- Spontaneous miscarriage can impact postpartum endocrine function.
- Understanding the return to ovulation is crucial for family planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate endocrine function and the return to ovulation after spontaneous miscarriage.
- To assess hormonal profiles in the first and second cycles postpartum.
Main Methods:
- Assays of first morning urine samples for oestrone-3-glucuronide, luteinizing hormone (LH), and pregnanediol-3-glucuronide.
- Analysis of endocrine data in 18 women following spontaneous abortion.
Main Results:
- Ovulation occurred in all 18 women before the first menses, averaging 29 days postpartum.
- The first cycle postpartum showed lower luteal phase oestrone, peak LH, and pregnanediol levels compared to the second cycle.
- Mean luteal phase length was shorter in the first cycle (12.9 days) than the second (14.4 days).
Conclusions:
- Despite some endocrine disturbances, most women experience a rapid return to ovulation post-miscarriage.
- Early contraception is recommended for women seeking to avoid pregnancy due to the quick return to fertility.