Abstract
The human vagina and uterus are heavily innervated by VIP-containing nerve fibres. In the present study, we have measured vaginal blood flow, transmucosal oxygen tension and uterine smooth muscle activity during stepwise intravenous infusion of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) (0, 100, 300, 900 pmol kg-1 h-1) in non-pregnant women. Vaginal blood flow was measured by the heat clearance technique, transmucosal oxygen tension by an O2-electrode and uterine activity by a micro-tip pressure catheter in the uterine cavity. Arterial blood pressure, pulse frequency and the concentration of VIP in peripheral venous blood were monitored. VIP induced a concentration-dependent increase in vaginal blood flow. The transmucosal oxygen tension was not significantly changed by VIP. The maximum dose of VIP decreased systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure and increased pulse frequency. VIP inhibited uterine activity. These findings suggest that VIP participates as a neurotransmitter in the control of genital physiological responses.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
