Neuroendocrine regulation of female fertility: the role of CNS-derived hormones

Infertility is an increasing concern for many women and can affect both physical and emotional well-being. The central nervous system (CNS) - particularly the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pineal gland - plays a crucial role in female reproductive health. We conducted a narrative review of relevant studies published between 2015 and 2025, sourcing data from PubMed and Scopus. Our goal was to investigate how dysregulation of hormones from the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and pineal gland contributes to fertility-related disorders, such as impairments in ovulation, oocyte quality, and embryo development. Both human and significant animal studies were considered to better understand how CNS hormones affect fertility. The findings emphasize the roles of key hormones, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), melatonin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and vasopressin (ADH). The proper timing and balance of these hormones are vital. For instance, GnRH pulses regulate the release of LH and FSH, which are essential for ovulation and follicle development. Melatonin supports oocyte health and helps maintain the menstrual cycle, while ACTH and TSH are also involved in reproductive function. Vasopressin affects uterine activity and hormone production. Understanding these hormonal interactions may lead to better diagnostic tools and more effective treatment strategies for conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and other fertility-related disorders. Unlike previous studies, this research provides a comprehensive investigation of how CNS-mediated hormonal regulation influences female reproductive outcomes, examining the roles of all involved hormones.