gonadotropin
Pronunciation: goh-nad-oh-TROH-pin
Hormones that stimulate gonadal function, including FSH and LH, used therapeutically in fertility treatments to promote follicle development.
Full Definition
Gonadotropins are glycoprotein hormones that regulate reproductive function by stimulating the gonads (ovaries and testes). The primary gonadotropins include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), both produced by the anterior pituitary gland, as well as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) produced by the placenta. In reproductive endocrinology, synthetic and purified gonadotropins are used therapeutically to induce ovulation, stimulate follicular development in controlled ovarian stimulation protocols, and support luteal phase function. These medications are essential components of most assisted reproductive technology cycles and require careful monitoring to prevent complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type (FSH, LH, hCG) when documenting specific treatments.
In Context
- "The patient's gonadotropin dosage was adjusted based on follicular response monitoring." — Treatment cycle documentation
- "Recombinant gonadotropins were prescribed for the controlled ovarian stimulation protocol." — Medication prescription record