Effects of three 19-nor steroids on human ovulation and menstruation
Garcia, C.R.; Pincus, G.; Rock, J.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 75(1): 82-97
1958
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9378 PMID: 13487686 DOI: 10.1016/0002-9378(58)90555-6Document Number: 477144
The effect of dosages of 5 to 50 mg/day from the 5th to the 25th day of the menstrual cycle, of 17-ethinyl-19-nor-testosterone (III) on ovulation, menstruation and fertility were studied in women with reproductive failures. Using basal temperature, endometrial biopsies and vaginal smears as criteria of ovulation, it was found that all 3 compounds prevent formation of the corpora lutea as well as a decrease in pregnandiol excretion indicating an inhibition of ovulation. The fact that there was a slight but not significant decrease in 17-ketosteroid indicates that there was no inhibition of adreno-corticotrophic hormone. While compound III was effective in inhibiting ovulation it had a limited ability to sustain endometrial tissue. A discussion of the side effects of the 3 compounds follows. After therapy for 5 months with compounds I and II there was a 14% cure rate of infertility.