Gonadotropin CRP:

Understanding the Role of Gonadotropins in Reproductive Health

This training video is about understanding the role of gonadotropins in reproductive health is crucial for diagnosing and treating infertility.

1.Introduction to Gonadotropins

A group of hormones crucial for the regulation of the reproductive system in both males and females.

Controlling the development, growth, and function of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females).

Produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and the placenta.

2.The primary types of gonadotropins include:

• Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG):

This hormone is derived from the urine of postmenopausal women and contains both Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH).

Primarily used in fertility treatments to stimulate the development of multiple follicles in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies.

• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG):

This hormone is produced by the placenta during pregnancy

It helps maintain the corpus luteum, which produces the progesterone necessary to sustain the pregnancy.

hCG is also used in fertility treatments to trigger ovulation and in some weight-loss programs.

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH):

LH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a vital role in the reproductive process.

In women, LH triggers ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum

In men, it stimulates the production of testosterone by the Leydig cells in the testes.

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):

Also produced by the anterior pituitary gland

FSH is essential for regulating the growth and maturation of the ovarian follicles in women and sperm production in men.

In women, FSH works in conjunction with LH to control the menstrual cycle and stimulate the growth of the ovarian follicle, which contains the egg.

In men, FSH supports the production of sperm by stimulating the Sertoli cells in the testes

3. Key Gonadotropins and Their Functions

Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG)

Extracted from the urine of postmenopausal women

Contains FSH and LH

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)

Produced by the placenta during pregnancy

Stimulates the release of progesterone to support pregnancy

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – Regulates the menstrual cycle and triggers ovulation

Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) – Stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles

4.Urinary Gonadotropin and Recombinant Gonadotropin Products

Urinary Gonadotropin

Derived from human urine. Examples: Follisurge, Folligraph

Recombinant Gonadotropin

Produced using recombinant DNA technology

Purer and more consistent in terms of dosage

5. Hormone Levels and Fertility

Estradiol

Female sex hormone; helps regulate the menstrual cycle

Serum Progesterone

Produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation

Prepares the uterus for implantation and supports early pregnancy

LH Surge:

A rapid increase in LH levels that triggers ovulation

5.Infertility and Gonadotropins

Ovarian Reserve

A woman’s remaining egg supply

Influenced by factors such as age and hormonal imbalances

Fertility Treatments

Clomiphene and Letrozole: Oral medications that stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs

Gonadotrophins: Injectable hormones that directly stimulate egg production

Conclusion
Through the use of urinary and recombinant gonadotropin products, as well as other fertility treatments, couples facing infertility can increase their chances of conceiving and achieving a successful pregnancy.