THE PHYSIOLOGIC BASIS FOR CLINICAL APPLICATIONS OF PROGESTERONE

Abstract

Progesterone has been isolated from the corpus luteum and adrenal gland, but has not been identified chemically in normal human tissue. Recent studies indicate that this hormone in combination with estrogen can reproduce the endometrial changes observed during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Uterine bleeding is affected by progesterone only after previous estrogenic stimulation of the endometrium. The relation of progesterone to the etiology and relief of dysmenorrhea is still debated. Although much evidence indicates that progesterone is responsible for the maintenance of pregnancy, the evaluation of the hormone in functional disturbances of pregnancy awaits further study.