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Hormones and Reproduction
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The general pathway for the hormonal release implicated
in is the following:
- The hypothalamus in the brain secretes (GnRH). It seems that neural stimuli can effect the release
of GnRH by the hypothalamus. Hence the temporary disturbances of
that may follow emotional stress.
- GnRH then stimulates the pituitary gland, situated directly below
the hypothalamus, to secrete the gonadotrophins ,
luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating
hormone (FSH).
- LH and FSH then act on the .
FSH stimulates maturation of a follicle in the ovary as well as the
release of oestrogens and an ,
while LH, which peaks sharply in the middle of the ovarian cycle, causes
the empty follicle to be transformed into a . In males, LH and FSH stimulate release of the male sex hormones,
such as testosterone.
- Sex hormones are also produced by the adrenal glands, located on top
of the kidneys.
During , blood levels
of LH and FSH increase and produce the typical physiological and psychological
changes observed during these years.
Hormone levels and types in the body also change during
.
The information in this page is presented in summarised form and has been taken
from the following source(s):
1.
Introduction to Human Physiology , 2nd Edition (1981), M. Griffins, Macmillan Publishing
Co. Inc, New York
2.
Child Development , 6th Edition (1994), J. W. Santrock, Wm. C. Brown
Communications, Inc.
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Introduction
