Authors: Mueller, A.; Siemer, J.; Schreiner, S.; Koesztner, H.; Hoffmann, I.; Binder, H.; Beckmann, M.W.; Dittrich, R.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 21, Number 7, July 2006 , pp. 1863-1868(6)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Adequate uterine contractility and peristalsis are involved in the transport of semen and gametes and in successful embryo implantation. Estrogen and progesterone fluctuate characteristically during the menstrual cycle. It has been suggested that both hormones influence uterine peristalsis in characteristic ways. METHODS: An extracorporeal perfusion model of the swine uterus was used that keeps the uterus in a functional condition and is suitable for the study of physiological questions. The effects of estrogen and progesterone on oxytocin-induced uterine peristalsis were assessed using an intrauterine double-chip microcatheter. RESULTS: Estrogen perfusion was associated with an increase in intrauterine pressure (IUP) in a dose-dependent manner. There was a significant difference between the IUP increase measured in the isthmus uteri and that in the corpus uteri, resulting in a cervico-fundal pressure gradient. Estrogen perfusion resulted in a significantly higher rate of peristaltic waves starting in the isthmus uteri and directed towards the corpus uteri. Progesterone was able to antagonize the estrogen effect in general. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that estrogen and progesterone have differential effects in the regulation of uterine peristalsis. The present observation shows that estrogen stimulates uterine peristalsis and is able to generate a cervico-fundal direction of peristalsis, whereas progesterone inhibits directed uterine peristalsis.

Keywords: fertility; oxytocin; peristalsis; sperm transport; uterine contractility

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/del056

Publication date: 2006-07-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: Mueller, A. ;  Siemer, J. ;  Schreiner, S. ;  Koesztner, H. ;  Hoffmann, I. ;  Binder, H. ;  Beckmann, M.W. ;  Dittrich, R.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers