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Female hypogonadism: evaluation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis

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Abstract

Female hypogonadism refers to deficient or abnormal function of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis that clinically presents with menstrual cycle disturbances. Female hypogonadism can be due to a congenital or acquired cause, and the defect can be at the level of the hypothalamus, pituitary or ovary. A careful history, physical exam and selected laboratory testing can often determine the locus of the defect and whether it results from a structural or hormonal problem. Laboratory testing generally relies on basal hormone levels; however, timing of blood sampling in relation to menses is important to interpretation of the data.

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Abbreviations

FSH:

Follicle stimulating hormone

LH:

Luteinizing hormone

GnRH:

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone

POF:

Premature ovarian failure

PCOS:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome

CAH:

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

DHEA-S:

Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate

GPR54:

G protein couple receptor 54

IHH:

Idiopathic hypogonadotrophic hypogondadism

E2:

Estradiol

HPO axis:

Hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, 1635 N. Ursula St, MS F732, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA

    Micol S. Rothman & Margaret E. Wierman

  2. Research Service, Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Denver, CO, 80220, USA

    Margaret E. Wierman

Authors
  1. Micol S. Rothman
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  2. Margaret E. Wierman
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Correspondence to Micol S. Rothman.

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Rothman, M.S., Wierman, M.E. Female hypogonadism: evaluation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis . Pituitary 11, 163–169 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11102-008-0109-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11102-008-0109-3

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