THE ROLE OF PROGESTERONE IN THE PRODUCTION OF VAGINAL CHANGES IN OVARIECTOMIZED FEMALE RATS1

Abstract

Progesterone has no consistent or significant stimulating effect on vaginal cornification in the ovariectomized rat when given in conjunction with estrogen, in contrast to its important role in the guinea pig. This may in part be due to differences in normal luteal activity. While cornification was not markedly enhanced by treatments with progesterone, it was not inhibited until as much as 0. 8 of an I. U. was given, which dose caused mucification.