gonadotropin

gonadotropin: a hormone that stimulates the gonads (ovaries or testicles) to secrete their own hormones, namely, progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen. Synonym gonadotrophin. one of the hormones released by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, which programs the activity of the ovary in the female and the testis in the male. See also FSH; LH.

Dictionary of Sexology Project: Main Index

Also known as gonadotrophins.

Released by the anterior pituitary gland in response to GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) from the hypothalamus.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) stimulates the testes to produce testosterone in men. In women it stimulates ovulation, and promotes the formation of a corpus luteum.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) regulates spermatogenesis in the testes to produce sperm. In women it controls the growth of new follicles from which an ovum can be released.