RETURN OF OVARIAN FUNCTION AFTER ABORTION

Abstract

The 1st menstrual cycle after a therapeutic abortion was studied in 18 women by measuring plasma estradiol and progesterone concentrations and the urinary excretion of LH [luteinizing hormone] until the 1st menstruation. The plasma concentrations of estradiol and progesterone declined rapidly, reaching low values as early as the 2nd day after the abortion. An increase in plasma estradiol levels was observed from the 7th post-abortal day onwards. A peak of short duration in the plasma progesterone concentrations occurred during the increased estradiol synthesis. The concentration of progesterone during the luteal phase of the cycle was lower than in a normal cycle, indicating an inadequate luteal function. Return of ovulation was observed in 83% of patients during the 1st cycle; as judged by a biphasic estradiol profile in plasma, a mid-cycle LH peak, and subsequent elevation of progesterone. The 1st LH peak was observed 16 days after the abortion. The rapid return of the ovulatory function makes immediate post-abortal contraception a necessity.