[Role of the uterus in human cyclic ovarian function]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 23, 2026

Two Methods for Establishing Primary Human Endometrial Stromal Cells from Hysterectomy Specimens
Published on: May 23, 2014
Abstract:
The ovarian function of 20 women with congenital uterine and vaginal aplasia was examined. Cyclic character of estradiol and progesterone secretion persisted in 19 patients. The concentration values of these hormones were within physiological norm in the majority of the women. Estradiol-estrone concentration ratio was lower than in the healthy subjects, showing a possible activation of estradiol metabolism in the uterus absence. The duration of the luteal hormone steroidogenic activity was the same as in the healthy women. Possible realization of the human reproductive system cyclic activity without the uterus is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
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 growth — and...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Ovarian Cycle
Oogenesis
Each primary oocyte is surrounded by a layer of pre-granulosa cells, forming what is known...
Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle. At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...

