[Role of the uterus in human cyclic ovarian function]

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.