Mean Follicle-stimulating Hormone Levels Research Articles

STUDY OF EFFECT OF SMOKING AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION ON REPRODUCTIVE HORMONES AND SEMEN PARAMETERS IN MALE PARTNERS OF INFERTILE COUPLES AT ANMMCH, GAYA, BIHAR

Background: Nearly 15% couples trying to conceive are affected by infertility, and male infertility affects nearly 50% of these. Majority of the men have no apparent reason for infertility. Tobacco smoking and alcohol intake are avoidable factors which may affect male fertility. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption on serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone levels and on semen microscopy parameters in male partners of infertile couples.Material and Methods: This cross sectional descriptive study, included male partners of couples presenting with infertility at Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of ANMMCH, Gaya, Bihar. Exposure to risk factors was recorded. Serum FSH and testosterone levels and semen microscopy for sperm concentration, progressive motility and morphology were evaluated. Results: In the 98 subjects, mean FSH levels, testosterone levels, sperm concentration and sperm progressive motility were signicantly lower in smokers (P=0.001, 0.002, 0.005, 0.003 respectively). Same parameters were signicantly lower in alcoholics (P<0.001). Smokers had signicantly higher odds of abnormal testosterone levels. Alcohol consumers had signicantly higher odds of low FSH levels, abnormal testosterone levels, oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. Conclusions: Smoking and alcoholism may be signicant contributors to male infertility. More efforts to inform the youth about effects of smoking and alcoholism on fertility are required.

Gonadotroph Pituitary Adenoma Causing Treatable Infertility and Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome in Female Patients: Neurosurgical, Endocrinologic, Gynecologic, and Reproductive Outcomes

Gonadotroph pituitary adenoma (Gn-PA) may rarely cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) leading to infertility in women, though this remains poorly described. We present a quantitative systematic review including 2 institutional and 48 literature cases with Gn-PA causing OHSS to thoroughly describe the clinical features and therapeutic outcomes from multidisciplinary aspects. The patients demonstrated a mean age of 31.5 years and a mean FSH of 14.4 IU/L. Estradiol was high at > 350 pg/mL in 82%. The mean maximal adenoma diameter was 22 mm with Knosp grade being ≥ 3 in 10 cases. Abdominal surgery preceded adenoma resection in 24 (48%). Among 25 for whom extent of resection was recorded, total adenoma resection was achieved in 12. Through a mean follow-up of 25 months, adenoma recurrence was observed in 5, which were treated with re-resection (2), radiation (2), and medical therapy followed by bilateral oophorectomy (1). Medical therapies were partially effective or ineffective, and adenoma shrinkage did not follow; gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists/antagonists were partially effective in 20% (2/10), dopamine agonists in 44% (8/18), and somatostatin analogues in 50% (1/2). Four experienced swelling of tumor/ovaries after GnRH agonists/antagonists administration. Overall, chemical remission was obtained in 26 of 28, normalization of ovaries in 25 of 27, and successful pregnancy in 12 of 14. Adenoma resection is the main treatment, leading to reduction in ovarian size and biochemical remission, with a high likelihood of subsequent spontaneous pregnancy. Increased awareness of this rare condition may help avoid unnecessary abdominal procedures.

Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism in Nigerian men with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background. Studies have reported a higher preva-lence of hypogonadism in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than non-diabetic men. The pattern of hypogonadism in men with T2DM using gonado-tropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation test in Sub-Saharan Africa is unknown. Objective. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and pattern of hypogonadism in Nigerian men with T2DM. Methods. A cross-sectional study involving 358 men with T2DM and 179 non-diabetic men as controls. Androgen Deficiency in the Ageing Male (ADAM) questionnaire was administered. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) both at 0 hours and 4 hours after subcutaneous buserelin injec-tion, fasting total testosterone (TT), fasting plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin were measured. Ninety-nine men with T2DM selected by randomiza-tion using a computer underwent GnRH stimulation test, with subcutaneous injection of 100 micrograms of buserelin. Results. The mean TT of T2DM men was significantly lower compared to the controls (8.79 ± 3.35 nmol/L vs 15.41 ± 3.79 nmol/L, p < 0.001). The prevalence of hypogonadism in T2DM men was 80.4%, comprising 38.5% of severe hypogonadism and 41.9% mild hypogonadism. The mean LH and FSH levels were significantly higher in T2DM men than the controls (9.62 ± 6.82 IU/L vs 8.24 ± 5.91 IU/L, p = 0.022 and 8.50 ± 8.17 IU/L vs 5.17 ± 3.89 IU/L, p < 0.001 respectively). There was a statistically significant exaggerated response in mean (±SD) LH and FSH levels at 4 hours after buserelin in-jection compared to the 0-hour levels (58.58 ± 40.72 IU/L vs 8.38 ± 6.10 IU/L, p < 0.001 and 23.03 ± 18.02 IU/L vs 8.41 ± 7.45 IU/L, p < 0.001 respectively) in men with T2DM who had GnRH stimulation tests. Conclusion. This study shows that the prevalence of hypogonadism in men with T2DM is significantly higher than in non-diabetic men with mild hypogonadism accounting for most cases. Hypergonadotropic hypo-gonadism occurs more frequently in men with T2DM in Nigeria.

Immunological interpretation of minipuberty: Minipuberty as the driving force of sexual dimorphism in the immune response.

Although the physiology of minipuberty is well established, it is not fully explained why it occurs. It has been suggested that minipuberty contributes to the development of reproductive organs, somatic growth, cognitive/behavioural and sex-specific brain development. Given the well-known trade-off between the reproductive/endocrine and immune systems in adults, the immunological approach to minipuberty, which is characterized by transient activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary gonadal (HPG) axis, seems to be ignored. This study focused on the relationship of the lymphocyte subsets with gonadotrophin and sex hormones during the minipuberty. A total of 121 newborns (58 male) were included in this cross-sectional study. The hormone and lymphocyte subsets studied were as follow: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) estradiol (E), testosterone (T), CD19, CD16/56, CD3, CD3/CD4, CD3/CD8 and HLA-DR as lymphocyte activation marker. The mean FSH levels were higher in females (15.15±10.12mIU/ml vs, 2.61±1.74mIU/ml) and LH in males (5.80±2.51mIU/ml vs. 1.91±12.89mIU/ml) (P<.001 for each). The mean percentages of the CD3/CD4 levels were higher in females (54.61±6.70% vs. 51.17±6.77%) and CD3/CD8 in males (21.49±4.82% vs. 17.31±3.66%) (P<.001 for each). In the females, the mean FSH levels negatively correlated with CD3/CD4 (rFSH-CD3/CD4 =-0.423, P=.001) and positively correlated with CD3/CD8 (rFSH-CD3/CD8 =0.311, P=.013). In the males, LH positively correlated with CD3/CD4 (rLH-CD3/CD4 =0.406, P<.001) and negatively correlated with CD3/CD8 (rLH-CD3/CD8 =-0.486, P<.001). This study showed that the mean CD3/CD4 levels were higher in female and CD3/CD8 in male newborns, indicating that there was a sexual dimorphism in favour of immunostimulant in females and immunosuppressor components of immune response in males during the minipuberty. These interactions point to sex-specific trade-off between reproductive/endocrine and immune systems, which it reflects the an investment favouring in the reproductive system against the immune response during minipuberty, which is critical period for adult fertility, especially in males.

Preserved Ovarian Function Following Toxicity With Doxorubicin in Rats: Protective Effect of Nasturtium Officinale Extract

Background: Chemotherapy agents can cause ovarian dysfunction and eventually lead to infertility. This study investigated the effect of nasturtium officinale extract on the ovarian function following the toxicity induced by doxorubicin in female rats. Methods: Forty eight female Wistar rats (180-210g) were randomly divided in six groups as follows: Group I, normal rats receiving 1ml normal saline; Group II and III receiving 25 and 75 mg/kg of the extract daily by gavage for 21 days. Groups IV, V and VI receiving 10 mg/kg doxorubicin intraperitoneally on the first day. In addition, Group IV and V received 25 and 75 mg/kg of the extract, respectively. The serum levels of estrogen, progesterone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and ovarian Malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined after 21 days of treatment. The mean numbers of various graafian follicles and corpus lutea were recorded after treatment. Results: The mean serum FSH level in Group VI (0.11±0.01) significantly reduced compared to those in Groups II (0.21±0.05) and III (0.23±0.01), (P&lt;0.05). The mean serum LH and estrogen levels in Group VI (0.16±0.08) reduced insignificantly compared to those in the controls (0.21±0.02), and in Groups II (0.23±0.03) and III (0.22±0.09). A significant reduction in the number of primary, secondary and graafian follicles were observed in Group VI compared to the control group (P&lt;0.05). The serum MDA level significantly declined in Group V compared to that in Group VI (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The nasturtium officinale extract attenuated the toxic effect of doxorubicin on the rat ovaries and protected the cell division in the follicles and the oocytes maturation.

Converting Men From Clomiphene Citrate to Natesto for Hypogonadism Improves Libido, Maintains Semen Parameters, and Reduces Estradiol

To evaluate outcomes including libido, semen parameters, testosterone, estradiol (E2), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone when converting men with low libido on Clomiphene Citrate (CC) to Natesto. A retrospective chart review was performed. Baseline hormones prior to treatment, and again on CC and Natesto, as well as semen parameters on CC and on Natesto were assessed. In 41 men, there was no difference in serum testosterone levels on CC vs Natesto, however; there was a significantly higher E2 on CC than on Natesto. Although FSH levels were significantly lower on Natesto than at baseline, the mean FSH level on Natesto remained in the normal reference range. There was no difference in luteinizing hormone levels at baseline vs on Natesto. There was not a significant difference in semen parameter values when men were on CC vs when they were on Natesto for 3 months. At 3 months after changing to Natesto, 38 of 41 (92.7%) men reported significantly improved libido on Natesto when compared to CC. Men on CC and Natesto reach eugonadal testosterone levels, however; on CC the E2 level nearly doubled from baseline, and converting men from CC to Natesto returned E2 to nearly baseline levels. There was not a detrimental effect on semen parameters, and there was subjective reporting of improved libido after converting from CC to Natesto in this cohort, but further long-term studies are needed prior to Natesto being established as a definitive treatment for hypogonadism for men desiring to maintain fertility.

Astragalus fascicolifolius manna abortifacient risk and effects on sex hormones in BALB/c mice.

BackgroundAstragalus fascicolifolius manna is used to treat different diseases. Because pregnant women tend to use Astragalus. fascicolifolius and Iranian traditional medicine emphasizes the abortifacient potential of this plant, this study aimed to investigate Astragalus fascicolifolius manna abortifacient property and effects on estrogen, progesterone, LH and FSH levels in BALB/c mice.MethodThis experimental study was conducted with 70 female BALB/c mice assigned to seven groups: Nonpregnant, untreated; nonpregnant, Astragalus. fascicolifolius extract (400 mg/kg)-treated; pregnant, Astragalus. fascicolifolius extract (400, 800 and 1200 mg/kg)-treated; and two pregnant control groups. On 18 and 19 days of pregnancy, cesarean section performed on mice, resorbed embryos counted; then Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen and progesterone levels were measured by the ELISA.ResultsAstragalus. fascicolifolius extract caused a significant increase abortion in mice. The levels of progesterone, FSH and LH were significantly different among the groups such that mean progesterone level was lower and mean LH and FSH levels were higher in the Astragalus. fascicolifolius extract-treated groups than the pregnant, untreated group.ConclusionThis extract has abortifacient properties and this plant can be used cautiously in pregnancy. Decreasing progesterone, increasing FSH and LH feedback in response to decreased progesterone by this extract is one of the potential mechanisms involved in abortion.

Do antioxidants improve serum sex hormones and total motile sperm count in idiopathic infertile men?

Reactive oxygen species reduce the male sex hormone levels and disrupt the hormonal balance that regulates male reproductive functions. They disrupt spermatozoa and other testicular cells. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of antioxidant treatment on serum gonadal hormones and sperm parameters in men with idiopathic infertility. A total of 100 idiopathic infertile men aged 23-46 years were included in the study. Control group and antioxidant treatment group consisted of 50 men each. Patients in the treatment group received oral antioxidant supplement once a day. The antioxidant supplement content included L-carnitine, L-arginine, vitamin E, vitamin C, coenzyme Q, glutathione, beta-carotene, magnesium, vitamin B12, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin D3, folic acid, and selenium. Reproductive hormones and sperm parameters were compared between the groups at 6 months after starting the antioxidant therapy. No significant differences were observed in the patient age (p=0.861), partner age (p=0.081), total motile sperm count (TMSC) (p=0.324), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (p=0.557), luteinizing hormone (LH) (p=0.235), and total testosterone levels (p=0.851) at baseline between the treatment and control groups. Although the mean TMSC did not increase significantly, the mean FSH (p=0.008), LH (p=0.008), and total testosterone (p=0.006) levels significantly increased from baseline to post-treatment in the treatment group. However, no significant differences from baseline to post-treatment were observed in TMSC (p=0.486), FSH (p=0.712), LH (p=0.696), and total testosterone levels (p=0.546) in the control group. The research draws attention to the alternate treatment approaches in infertile men. Antioxidant treatment can increase the serum sex hormone levels.

Ovarian reserve in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

The aim of this study was to determine the autoimmune effects of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) on the fertility potential of women by evaluating ovarian reserves of AS patients. A total of 104 patients, 52 in the AS group (study group) and 52 in the control group were included in the study. Ovarian reserve was evaluated by serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, antral follicle count (AFC) and baseline serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. The mean serum AMH levels were significantly lower in the study group when compared to the controls (2.203 ± 1.110 vs. 1.188 ± 0.891, p < 0.001). In addition, the mean AFC was also significantly lower in the study group. (10.67 ± 1.81 vs. 9.54 ± 2.50, p = 0.009). Mean FSH levels were calculated to be 6.72 ± 1.14 in the study group and 7.21 ± 1.22 in the control group. The difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.781). This study shows that AS like several other autoimmune conditions has an adverse effect on the female fertility potential. Therefore, an early start and long-term management of AS patients who have fertility desire is recommended. Serum AMH levels can be used in monitoring ovarian reserve and in early detection of reproductive decline of AS patients. NCT04209881.

Association of GRIA1 polymorphisms with ovarian response to human menopausal gonadotropin in Iranian women

ObjectiveGlutamate ionotropic receptor AMPA type subunit 1 (GRIA1) is a subunit of a ligand-gated ion channel that regulates the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) by controlling the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Few studies have investigated the association between the GRIA1 gene and human infertility. This study evaluated the association of the GRIA1 rs548294 C > T and rs2195450 G > A polymorphisms with the ovarian response to human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) in Iranian women.MethodsOne hundred women with histories of at least 1 year of infertility were included. On the second day of menstruation, patients were injected with HMG; on the third day, blood samples were collected. After hormonal analysis, the GRIA1 rs548294 C > T and rs2195450 G > A genotypes of samples were identified via the restriction fragment length polymorphism method, and on day 9, the number of follicles was assessed via ultrasound.ResultsFor the GRIA1 rs548294 C > T and rs2195450 G > A single nucleotide polymorphisms, the subjects with CT and GG genotypes, respectively, displayed the highest mean FSH level, LH level, and number of follicles on day 9 of the menstrual cycle (p < 0.05). Significant positive correlations were observed between LH and FSH (p < 0.01), LH and follicle count (p < 0.01), FSH and age (p < 0.05), follicle count and age (p = 0.048), and FSH and follicle count (p < 0.01).ConclusionThis study showed a significant relationship between GRIA1 polymorphisms and ovarian response to the induction of ovulation. Therefore, determining patients’ GRIA1 genotype may be useful for improving treatment and prescribing suitable doses of ovulation-stimulating drugs.

Prevalence of hypogonadism in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus among the Indian population

To determine the prevalence of hypogonadism among Indian men with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and evaluate its association with various metabolic parameters. One hundred fifty consecutive men with T2DM, aged 25-70 years, and one hundred age-matched healthy men without diabetes were included. The free testosterone (FT) level was calculated using the total testosterone (TT), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and albumin levels in serum. Patients with a calculated FT level <6.35ng/dL and a positive response on the androgen deficiency in aging male questionnaire (ADAM) were diagnosed with hypogonadism. The prevalence of hypogonadism was 17.3% and 10% in men with and without T2DM, respectively. The body mass index (BMI) and the mean levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), TT, SHBG, Triglycerides (TG), and FT were significantly different between the groups. The mean BMI and TG levels were significantly higher in patients with T2DM than in those without. Both groups showed a significant negative correlation between the BMI and SHBG level. The hypogonadism prevalence was higher in patients with T2DM than in those without, although the difference did not reach statistical significance.

Reproductive Hormone Profiles and Their Relationships with Sexual Function in Patients with Prostate Cancer after Rapid Prostatectomy in Benin City

There are limited studies examining the relationship between serum reproductive hormone levels and sexual functions among prostate cancer (PCa) patients after rapid prostatectomy (RP). Aim: The present study aimed at evaluating the correlation between post-operative serum levels of some male reproductive hormones of PCa patients and their sexual functions in the months following RP. A total of 20 male patients with clinically localized PCa who had undergone RP within the last 12 months prior to commencement of the study, were invited to participate. The postoperative serum levels of their luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and total testosterone (Te) were measured. They also completed a structured health and lifestyle questionnaire to obtain information on their demographic characteristics and detailed medical history. Our data indicated normal mean levels of post-operative Te (4.34 ± 4.38 ng/ml) in the patients following RP, while the mean levels of FSH (39.24 ± 34.12 miu/ml) and LH (21.67 ± 25.73 miu/ml) were on the increase and far above normal ranges for healthy men. Data indicated a significant positive correlation between Te and frequency of sexual intercourse (r = 508; p The present study indicated that radical prostatectomy affected reproductive hormones by increasing LH and FSH concentrations above normal ranges for healthy men, while Te concentrations remained within normal range in the months following RP. The postoperative serum total Te concentrations of the patients were significantly associated with their postoperative sex drive, penile erection and frequency of sexual intercourse.

Determination of ovarian reserve in different age groups of infertile women

Background: Infertility is a major global issue, and the childbearing potential can be estimated by determining the ovarian reserve. Ovarian reserve is described as a quantity of the ovarian follicles and quality of oocytes. Aims and Objectives: The objective of our study was to identify the correlations between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), and antral follicle count (AFC) in different age groups of infertile women and to distinguish the most reliable marker for ovarian reserve with the objective of selecting a strategy for initial stages of infertility management. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 101 infertile women were assessed. The study participants were divided into three age groups: 20–29 years, 30–39 years, and >40 years. FSH, LH, AMH, and AFC were done on day 2–3 of menstrual cycle. Results: A total of 101 infertile women were assessed in our study. The mean age of the participants was 33.3 ± 4.37 years and the mean infertility period was 3.36 ± 2.26 years. The mean body mass index was 23.75 ± 2.97 kg/m2. The mean FSH level was 8.18 ± 5.54 and the mean AMH was 1.98 ± 1.0. The mean AFC was 9.29 ± 5.09. There was a statistically significantly elevated negative correlation between age and AMH level (rs = -0.667, P

Easiness of sperms retrieval in non-obstructive azoospermia is a strong predictor of clinical pregnancy after intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Background: Testicular sperm extraction followed by Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (TESE-ICSI) is the only route to genetically father a child in couples with Non-Obstructive Azoospermia (NOA).Objective: The aim was to identify the effect of severity of NOA on clinical pregnancy following ICSI.Patients and Methods: This retrospective study included 643 patients who underwent 712 ICSI cycles at a specialized In-Vitro Fertilization center between 2014 and 2019. We classified the patients into easy (445) and difficult NOA (267) based on the difficulty of microdissection TESE procedure, number of sperm retrieved, and the number of surgical attempts.Results: The clinical pregnancy rate is significantly higher in the easy NOA group [167/299 (55.8%)] as compared with the difficult NOA group [68/194 (35.1%)]. The mean age of the females and the mean follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were significantly lower in the easy NOA group compared with the difficult group [27.5±4.3 vs 29.9±4.6 years, P=0.0001, and 6.8±2.1 vs 7.4±2.5 mIU/ml, P=0.004, respectively]. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups regarding the mean male age, FSH level, and testicular size. The cumulus mass and the number of mature oocytes injected correlated significantly with the clinical pregnancy (r=0.122, P=0.012 and r=0.145, P=0.003, respectively). The sperm source whether fresh or frozen, the testicular pathology, and the identification of round spermatids in the pathology specimens did not correlate with the clinical pregnancy. We used the binary logistic regression to identify the final predictors. Only the NOA severity could be used to predict ICSI outcome. Easy NOA is more likely to have positive outcomes with ICSI (Odds ratio=1.70; Confidence interval=1.069–2.71; P=0.025). The model showed that neither female age nor FSH level could predict ICSI outcome in those patients.Conclusion: Easy sperm retrieval is an independent factor that is associated with positive ICSI outcomes in couples with NOA.

A preliminary evaluation of serum level of testosterone, LH, and FSH in patients with varicocele after varicocelectomy as a kidney-related disease.

IntroductionVaricocele is a common problem with a high prevalence in population with primary and secondary infertilities. The adverse effects of varicocele on spermatogenesis and fertility are known, but the association between clinical varicocele and testosterone is not clear. Hence, we decided to evaluate the serum levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in patients with varicocele after varicocelectomy.MethodsIn this study, 100 patients with varicocele were divided into two groups: hypogonadal patients with testosterone level <280 ng/dL and eugonadal patients with testosterone level >280 ng/dL. The serum levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH were measured before surgery and 3 months after surgery, and the results were analyzed using the SPSS software. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsPatients with varicocele after puberty till 50 years were divided into two groups: hypogonadal (testosterone <280 ng/dL) and eugonadal (testosterone >280 ng/dL) patients who required varicocelectomy. The mean testosterone level before surgery in hypogonadal patients was 215.22±83.31 ng/dL, which reached 326.95±35.125 ng/dL after surgery (P<0.0001), which was significant. There was no significant decrease in the mean FSH level, but there was a significant decrease in the mean LH level after varicocelectomy. In eugonadal group, testosterone level before surgery was 471.90±145.71 ng/dL, which reached 469.57±145.61 ng/dL after surgery, which was not significant.ConclusionIn our study, patients who underwent varicocelectomy had improved testosterone levels, so that this increase was more significant in hypogonadal patients than in eugonadal patients. Decrease in LH and FSH levels in all patients was seen after varicocelectomy, which can be due to increase in testosterone levels.

A comparative study on ABO blood group and fertility hormones in infertile women in Calabar, Southern Nigeria

Infertility, a disorder of the reproductive system, is commonly linked to hormonal, pituitary, cervical, uterine, immunological or psychological factors. Besides these factors, it can also be idiopathic or unexplained. Hence, there is a need for more research to unravel the causes of the unexplained infertility. This work aimed at finding out whether there is any relationship between ABO blood group system and female infertility. The study design was cross-sectional. Three hundred women between 18 and 40 years attending fertility clinic at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar between 2011 and 2012 were recruited for this study. Serum progesterone, prolactin, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol were determined using Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) while ABO blood grouping was determined using the tube method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 18. The confidence level was set at 95% where p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean age of the women was 30.65 ± 5.47 years and the percentage distributions of the blood groups among the women were as follows: 24% A, 12% B, 4% AB and 60% O. The mean FSH levels of blood groups A and O individuals were significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) than that of groups B. However, there was no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) in the mean levels of progesterone, prolactin, LH and estradiol in the respective groups. From this study, 38% of the population had increased levels of progesterone, 58% and 18.7% had elevated prolactin and FSH levels respectively while 11.33% and 43.3% had reduced levels of LH and estradiol levels respectively. Though, there was high prevalence of hyperprolactinemia observed in this study, there was no strong association between ABO blood group and female infertility but, the increased FSH levels observed in blood groups A and O may be a potential link between blood group and infertility and therefore may be beneficial for further study.

A study of Inhibin a-16C&gt;T gene polymorphism and other reproductive hormones in the diagnosis of Premature Ovarian Failure in Egyptian Women undergoing ICSI

Background: Premature ovarian failure (POF) or poor ovarian response is a syndrome characterized by amenorrhea for duration of 4-6 months or more, hypo-estrogenism and elevated serum FSH concentration (FSH > 40 IU/1) before age of 40 years. The POF may arise through different events including: reduction of primordial follicle pool; acceleration of follicular atresia; alteration of primordial follicles maturation/recruitment Inhibin is a product of granulosa cells. Onset of POF can be a result of inhibin alpha genetic abnormalities, the most extensively studied genetic abnormality is 16C>T polymorphism. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to evaluate whether INHa-16C>T gene polymorphism could be a predictive marker for POF in the Egyptian females undergoing ICSI. Also, to identify role of the ovarian hormones like; FSH, LH, estradaiol, progesterone, anti-mullarian hormone, activin and inhibin in the dignosis of POF. Patients and methods: All cases were recurted from the Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Mansoura University, Egypt. All women were subjected to history taking including demographic data, menstrual and reproductive characteristics and history of hormonal therapy. The study group included 50 women with symptoms and signs suggestive of ovarian failure; their mean age was 31.5± 4.88 years. The control group included 50 healthy women with normal hormonal profile with male factors infertility, their mean age 29.05+3.3 years. Venous blood samples were collected for assay of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-mullarian hormone (AMH), inhibin and activin using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Genomic DNA was isolated from EDTA-anticoagulated peripheral blood using DNA extraction kit. Results: Women with POF showed a highly significant increase in the mean FSH and LH levels compared to control group. There is a statistically significant decrease of the mean serum inhibin and inhibin/activin ratio in women with POF compared to control women. In women with POF, the frequencies of homozygous genotypes CC, heterozygote genotypes CT and homozygote genotypes TT of the INHa-16C>T polymorphism were 70% (35/50), 24% (12/50) and 6% (3/50). The C allele was present in 82% of patients with POF and in 73% of the control group, whereas the T allele was present in 12% and 27% respectively. Conclusion: INHa-16C>T gene polymorphisms is not considered as a risk factor for POF among Egyptian women.

Hot flush values of gonadotropins and estradiol in menopause

Introduction/Objective. Hot flashes are one of the first clinical symptoms of menopause. The mechanism of hot flashes is still not fully understood. Changes in concentrations of the circulating follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and other hormones can lead to thermoregulatory dysfunction. The aim of this study was to examine the association between dynamic changes in concentrations of sex hormones and the presence of vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women. Methods. The study involved 36 women divided into two groups: in the first group there were 24 women with hot flashes, BMI 26.16 ? 3.42 kg/m2; the control group comprised 12 women, BMI 26.82 ? 3.89 kg/m2. Data on the presence of hot flashes were based on medical history data. Venous blood samples were collected for the analyses of FSH, LH, prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, dehidroepiandrosteron sulfate, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and thyroxin. During the subjective feeling of hot flashes, three blood samples during the day and night were collected to determine the mean levels of FSH, LH, and estradiol in women with hot flashes. Results. Women with hot flashes had significantly higher prolactin (389.58 ? 123.69 mIU/L to 258.19 ? 122 mIU/L, p &lt; 0.01) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (3.60 ? 2.49 nmol/L vs. 1.88 ? 1.27 nmol/L, p &lt; 0.05) levels, as well as lower mean values of FSH during hot flashes during the day (69.08 ? 28.84 IU/L vs. 107.18 ? 39.11 IU/L, p &lt; 0.01) and night (60.72 ? 21.89 IU/L vs. 104.57 ? 38.06 IU/L, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusion. .Women with hot flashes had significantly lower mean FSH levels during hot flashes during the day and night than the control group.

Evaluation of the Effect of Pentoxifylline on Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats

Chemotherapy is associated with male infertility. Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloro-platinum (II) (CDDP) as a chemotherapy medication used to treat a number of cancers has been reported to most likely induce testicular toxicity. Administration of antioxidants, such as pentoxifylline (PTX) may reduce some Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) of CDDR Therefore, this study investigated the potentially protective effects of PTX on CDDP-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats. For this purpose, 42 male rats were randomly divided into 7 groups. The rats were orally preheated with PTX at the 3 doses of 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg once a day for 14 successive days. On the 14th day of the study, they were intraperitoneally (IP) administered with a single dose of CDDP (7 mg/kg). Finally, the sperm/testis parameters, serum levels of reproductive hormones, including testosterone, Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) as the pivotal endocrine factors controlling testicular functions, and histopathological changes of testis tissue were examined. Pretreatment with the two doses of 75 and 150 mg/kg PTX indicated significant increases in the sperm count and motility induced by CDDP administration. The right and significantly left testis weights were decreased following the treatment with 300 mg/kg of PTX plus CDDP. However, 75 mg/kg of PTX plus CDDP showed the best near-to-normal histopathological features. The results demonstrated that PTX alone enhanced some parameters, such as the sperm count, while reducing other parameters, including sperm fast motility and germ layer thickness. Furthermore, despite testosterone or LH levels, the mean serum FSH level was significantly augmented by the doses of 75 and 150 mg/ kg. It was concluded that PTX administration cannot reduce CDDP-induced testicular toxicity even at high doses (e.g., 300 mg/kg), while it seemed to partially intensify CDDP toxicity effects at a dose of 75 mg/kg. Thus, further research is required in this regard.

Electroacupuncture for reproductive hormone levels in patients with diminished ovarian reserve: a prospective observational study.

BackgroundEffective methods for the treatment of reproductive dysfunction are limited. Previous studies have reported that acupuncture can modulate female hormone levels, improve menstrual disorders, alleviate depression and improve pregnancy rates. However, studies of acupuncture for diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) are lacking.ObjectiveTo carry out a prospective observational study aimed at assessing the effect of EA on the reproductive hormone levels of patients with DOR seeking fertility support and consider its safety.MethodsEligible patients with DOR received EA for 12 weeks: five times a week for 4 weeks followed by three times a week for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in mean follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level at week 12. Mean luteinising hormone (LH) and serum oestradiol (E2) levels, FSH/LH ratios and symptom scale scores were simultaneously observed.ResultsTwenty-one patients with DOR were included in the final analysis. Mean FSH levels fell from 19.33±9.47 mIU/mL at baseline to 10.58±6.34 mIU/mL at week 12 and 11.25±6.68 mIU/mL at week 24. Change in mean FSH from baseline was −8.75±11.13 mIU/mL at week 12 (p=0.002) and −8.08±9.56 mIU/mL at week 24 (p=0.001). Mean E2 and LH levels, FSH/LH ratios and irritability scores were improved at weeks 12 and/or 24. Approximately 30% patients reported subjective increases in menstrual volume after treatment.ConclusionsEA may modulate reproductive hormone levels and the effects seem to persist for at least 12 weeks after treatment with no significant side effects. EA may improve the ovarian reserve of patients with DOR, though further research is needed.Trial registration numberNCT02229604; Results.