OVARIAN-FUNCTION IN HYSTERECTOMIZED MACACA FASCICULARIS

Seven hysterectomized cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were studied for more than 1 year. Menstrual cycle lengths in hysterectomized monkeys were based on the recurrent pattern of estrogens and progestins and were identical to menstrual cycle lengths in the same animals prior to hysterectomy based on the appearance of menses. Peripheral plasma levels of total estrogens and progestins demonstrated the persistence of a normal follicular phase with a preovulatory estrogen peak, followed by a normal pattern of luteal progestin secretion. Steroid patterns of hysterectomized animals were comparable to those of contemporary intact controls.