Prostaglandins and oviductal function

Abstract

This review presents evidence of a specific involvement of PGs in the function of the human Fallopian tube. A role of PGE and PGF in ovum transport seems plausible, but data from human studies are still fragmentary. High estrogen levels in tissue at ovulation may cause 'tubal lock' by increasing the activity of the isthmic musculature. This effect might be exerted by an estrogen-dependent increase in the formation of PGF as well as by increased sensitivity to PGF. The elevation of progesterone levels in the early luteal phase would counteract the effect of estrogens by instead favoring E prostaglandins. PGE seems to relax the isthmic muscle, allowing the entry of the fertilized ovum into the uterine cavity.