Gonadotropic hormones

Gonadotropic hormones are hormones that stimulate the gonads (the ovaries and testes). They include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These hormones are secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and play a crucial role in the reproductive system.

Follicle-stimulating hormone

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is one of the gonadotropic hormones that plays a vital role in the reproductive processes of both males and females. In females, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which are the structures that contain the eggs. In males, FSH stimulates the production of sperm in the testes.

Luteinizing hormone

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is another gonadotropic hormone. In females, LH triggers ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. It also stimulates the production of progesterone, a hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy. In males, LH stimulates the production of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.

Human chorionic gonadotropin

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It is made by cells that form the placenta, which nourishes the egg after it has been fertilized and becomes attached to the uterine wall. hCG can be detected in the blood and urine of pregnant women and is the hormone detected by pregnancy tests.

Role in the reproductive system

Gonadotropic hormones play a crucial role in the reproductive system. They regulate the growth and function of the gonads (ovaries and testes), the production of sex hormones, and the production and release of eggs in females and sperm in males. They also play a role in the menstrual cycle in females and the production of testosterone in males.

See also

• Endocrine system
• Hormone
• Reproductive system
• Pituitary gland

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