Related Experiment Videos
[Changes in blood prolactin in relation to the menstrual cycle]
Bollettino Della Societa Italiana Di Biologia Sperimentale
|December 15, 1981
Summary
Midcycle prolactin levels significantly increase in women, despite individual variations. This study confirms a positive correlation between follicular and midcycle prolactin, suggesting a physiological role for this surge.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Hormonal Regulation
Context:
- The midcycle hormonal fluctuations are critical for ovulation.
- Prolactin's role during the menstrual cycle is not fully understood.
- Previous research suggests a potential prolactin surge at midcycle.
Purpose:
- To investigate the hypothesis of a prolactin surge at midcycle.
- To measure circulating prolactin levels during the follicular phase and midcycle.
- To analyze the correlation between prolactin levels in different cycle phases.
Summary:
- Radioimmunoassayable prolactin was measured in 15 normally menstruating women during the follicular phase and at midcycle.
- While mean prolactin values showed no significant difference due to individual variability, a strong positive correlation (r=0.72) was observed between follicular and midcycle levels.
- The study concludes a significant increase in prolactin at midcycle.
Impact:
- Provides evidence supporting the hypothesis of a midcycle prolactin surge.
- Highlights the physiological significance of prolactin during ovulation.
- Contributes to understanding hormonal interplay in the female reproductive cycle.