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Functional state of hormonal regulation of the reproductive system

Alexey Portnov, medical expert
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024

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The reproductive system consists of certain structures of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, gonads, target organs (uterine tubes, uterus, etc.). Elements of the reproductive system are interconnected by information signals, allowing it to function as a single whole.

The most important role in the regulation of the reproductive system is given to hormones. Hormones of the reproductive system are classified according to their chemical structure and place of secretion. Accurate determination of the concentration of these hormones in human biological fluids is extremely important for assessing the functional state of hormonal systems regulating the reproductive system and diagnosing the diseases that cause their disturbance. Determination of the content of hormones is widely used to establish the causes of both female and male infertility, in which in many cases the first place is the violation of hormonal regulation.

Classification of the most important hormones that regulate reproductive function, in the place of their synthesis

Hypothalamus: GRG, PWG, GRIG, CAF.
Pituitary: LH (lutropin), FSH (follitropin), prolactin.
Ovaries: estrogens, gestagens, androgens, inhibin.
The placenta: estrogens, gestagens, hC, prolactin.
Testes: androgens, inhibin.
The adrenal cortex: androgens, estrogens.

Gonadotropins

Gonadotropins - FSH and LH - glycoproteins, secreted by cyanophilic cells of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland under the action of GnRH. Target organs for them are the gonads. Regulation of the secretion of FSH and LH is carried out by the negative feedback mechanism. In men, a high level of testosterone in the blood has a depressing effect on the secretion of LH. Regulation of gonadotropin secretion in women is much more difficult.

During the menstrual cycle in women, the concentrations of hormones in the blood are subject to certain rhythmic changes. The duration of the menstrual cycle is 28 ± 4 days, it is divided into the following phases.

The follicular (follicular) phase includes all stages of maturation of the follicle.
The phase of ovulation.
The final luteal phase, that is, the cycle stage, lasting from ovulation to the moment of endometrium deciduation and thus reflecting the full period of the life of the yellow body.

The beginning of the menstrual cycle is considered the first day of menstrual bleeding.

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