The Menstrual Cycle Physiology, Reproductive Disorders, and Infertility

by Ferin, Michel; Jewelewicz, Raphael; Warren, Michelle

• ISBN13: 9780195061932
• ISBN10: 0195061934
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1993-03-11
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

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.

Author Biography

Dr. Michel Ferin is Professor of Physiology in the Center for Reproductive Sciences at Columbia University. He is an expert in basic and applied research in the physiology and neuroendocrinology of the female reproductive system.
Dr. Raphael Jewelewicz is Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology at Columbia University. He is one of the most experienced in reproductive endocrinology and infertility in the US.
Dr. Michelle Warren is an expert on hypothalmic amenorrhea and women's hormonal problems and a pioneer in research on the effects of exercise and diet on the reproductive system and osteoporosis. She is Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology and Clinical Medicine, and Head of Reproductive Endocrinology at Columbia University.

Table of Contents

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 Cycle: 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

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