Estrogen-induced human luteolysis.

Abstract

Diethylstilbestrol diphosphate (50 mg daily for 5 days) was given to 3 women for 5 treatment cycles beginning on the third day following the rise in basal body temperature. Daily plasma samples were obtained for radioimmunoassay of progesterone levels. In k treated cycles, a luteolytic effect was apparent by the third day of treatment. This was accompanied by a decrease in the length of the luteal phase by 2-4 days. In the fifth treated cycle, treatment with diethylsti1bestrol beginning 6 or 7 days after ovulation failed to cause luteolysis or interrupt pregnancy.