Effects of Gonadotropins on Motility of Human Ovary

Abstract

THE occurrence of smooth muscle cells in the ovaries of many mammalian species suggests their possible function in the rupture of the ripe follicle by their contractions¹. In the rabbit, pig and sheep ovarian follicles, true smooth muscle cells are present in either or both the theca interna and externa. In women, follicles are surrounded by a network of reticular fibres and cells which resemble smooth muscle cells without fibrils². In a recent report, the ovaries of the cat have not only demonstrated spontaneous contractions in vitro but have also responded to adrenergic stimulation³. On the basis of these findings and in view of the fact that the stromal region of the ovaries of many species, including man, has adrenergic innervation, it has been proposed that contractions of the fibromuscular tissue may play a role in rupture of the follicle and extrusion of the ova³. In this report we describe changes in human intraovarian pressure which seem to result from contraction of the surrounding fibromuscular tissue. In some women marked changes in intraovarian pressure were observed after administration of human menopausal gonadotrophin and chorionic gonadotrophin. The study was carried out in six women of reproductive age who had to undergo abdominal surgery for correction of tubal occlusion (four patients) or tubal ligation. The two patients undergoing tubal ligation were on contraceptive pills for 3–5 years before the operation.