gonadotropin surge
Rapid rise in luteinizing hormone that triggers ovulation in natural and stimulated cycles.
Full Definition
A gonadotropin surge refers to the dramatic increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion from the anterior pituitary that occurs in response to rising estradiol levels during the follicular phase. This LH surge is essential for final oocyte maturation, follicle rupture, and ovulation. In natural cycles, the surge typically occurs 24-36 hours before ovulation. During controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, preventing a premature gonadotropin surge is crucial for treatment success, achieved through GnRH agonists or antagonists. The surge can be mimicked using hCG injection to trigger final oocyte maturation before egg retrieval in IVF cycles.
Usage
Usage note: Critical timing marker in both natural and assisted reproduction cycles
In Context
- "Monitoring was intensified to detect the onset of the gonadotropin surge." — Cycle monitoring protocol
- "GnRH antagonist was administered to suppress premature gonadotropin surge." — Treatment protocol