The menstrual cycle : physiology, reproductive disorders, and infertility
This volume clarifies in a logical and didactic manner the sequence of events that characterize the human menstrual cycle. Each major organ involved in the cycle, the brain, the pituitary gland, the ovary, and the uterus is discussed and its contribution specifically outlined. The chapters trace the physiologic events within each of these organs, describe the hormones by which they communicate, and outline how critical aspects of the cycle are synchronized so that an ovulatory cycle can occur. Thus neuroendocrine control of the menstrual cycle is examined in detail, and the processes of follicular development, maturation, ovulation, and maintenance of the corpus luteum are thoroughly covered. The book then turns to pathophysiology and examines the conditions under which the menstrual cycle may become abnormal. Pathophysiological mechanisms that cause cycle disturbance, anovulation, and infertility are reviewed, as are clinical presentations of common menstrual disorders and their treatment. Progress in reproductive biology has been rapid, and the research spans several disciplines. In this volume information dispersed in many publications has been synthesized and concisely presented, providing an in-depth understanding of the processes that control reproductive function in the female.The reproductive cycle: an overview -- The neuroendocrine component: the hypothalamic-pituitary unit -- The ovarian component -- Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian communication -- The genital tract -- The fertile menstrual cycle -- The first menstrual cycle: adolescence and puberty -- The last menstrual cycles: the climacteric and menopause -- The abnormal menstrual cycle: introduction -- Introduction to the pathophysiology of the menstrual cycle -- Diagnosis of menstrual cycle dysfunction -- Menstrual cycle dysfunction: enhanced androgen secretion -- Therapeutic approaches to acyclicity -- Hormonal contraceptives -- The premenstrual syndrome
Michel Ferin, Raphael Jewelewicz, Michelle Warrenill. ; 24 cm
