Prostaglandin E2and the Luteal Phase of the Menstrual Cycle: Effects on Blood Progesterone, Estradiol, Cortisol and Growth Hormone Levels1

Abstract

An iv infusion of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) was given for 8 hr on 2-3 consecutive days to 7 normally cycling women during various periods of the luteal phase, and to 1 woman whose luteal phase was prolonged by hCG administration. Three women were infused with saline solution only. During PGE₂ infusion 2 hourly blood samples showed some variations in progesterone and estradiol levels regardless of the period of the luteal phase; no clear-cut depression was noted. These changes were similar to the spontaneous variations seen in controls. PGE₂ did not induce intermenstrual bleeding or premature menstruation, although uterine contractility was markedly increased. In 1 subject PGE₂ was given during the early postovulatory period without interfering with implantation and subsequent normal pregnancy. An increase of cortisol and GH blood levels was also observed during PGE₂ infusion. We conclude that PGE₂ in the doses used is not luteolytic in humans.