Studies on the mechanism of the ovulation-inhibiting effect of 19-norsteroids in cyclic rats.

Experiments performed in cyclic female rats demonstrated an equal ovulation-inhibiting activity of the 19-norgestagens norethynodrel, lynestrenol and norethisterone acetate after injection in oestrus and metoestrus, and after daily administration from oestrus to pro-oestrus. The results furthermore show that, after application of the minimal ovulation-inhibiting doses during oestrus and metoestrus, these substances 1. induce an increase in prolactin secretion, 2., with the exception of norethisterone acetate, possess a hypophysial site of action, 3. are able to induce deciduoma formation following traumatization of the uterus, and 4. maintain the reactivity of the cyclic corpora lutea to the injection of prolactin. The findings suggest that the prolactin-releasing and luteotrophic action of the progestagens studied may form an essential part of the mechanisms that are responsible for the inhibition of ovulation observed in rats after administration over one cycle.