Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2025

A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Classical and non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia: What is the difference in subsequent fertility?
Camille Carrière1, Cynthia Sarfati2, Isabelle Téjédor1
1AP-HP, IE3M, hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, department of endocrinology and reproductive medicine and Centre de référence des maladies endocriniennes rares de la croissance, centre de référence des pathologies gynécologiques Rares, ICAN, Paris, France.
Abstract:
21-Hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Increased production of adrenal-derived androgens and progesterone in 21OHD women interfere with their reproductive function and their fertility in many different ways, depending on the severity of the disease. Sexuality and fertility in women with classic 21OHD is impaired, due to several issues such as disrupted gonadotropic axis due to androgen and progesterone overproduction, and mechanical, psychological factors related to genital surgery. Fertility and fecundity in these women get better over the years. Subfertility seems contrariwise to be relative in non-classic 21OHD women. Before pregnancy, genotyping the partner and genetic counselling is mandatory.
Related Concept Videos
Adrenal Gland Disorders
Adrenal insufficiency, characterized by insufficient cortisol and aldosterone production, leads to conditions like Addison's disease. This disorder, affecting the adrenal cortex, exhibits symptoms such as skin bronzing, dehydration, low blood pressure, fatigue, and weight loss. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a genetic ailment causing...
Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
Gonadal and Placental Hormones
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair...
Nondisjunction
Spermatogenesis
Infertility in Males

