[Echographic study of ovulation. Correlation with hormonal changes. Advantages and limitations of the method]

Ultrasound is an additional method for research into ovarian physiology. We have carried out plasma hormone estimations of oestradiol, progesterone, F.S.H. and L.H., as well as basal temperature recordings and daily ultrasound estimations in the days preceding and following ovulation. We show how ultrasonic observation of ovulation corresponds with the hormonal changes. In 4 cases ovulation as seen on ultrasound corresponded with the spike of oestradiol and preceded the L.H. spike. The rise of oestradiol seems to be more important than the level of L.H. in predicting ovulation.