Endometrial wave-like activity in the non-pregnant uterus

The non-pregnant uterus shows wave-like activity throughout the menstrual cycle. This uterine activity was first detected using intra-uterine pressure recordings. The use of ultrasound has made it possible to study the movements of the uterus in a non-invasive manner. Throughout the menstrual cycle,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Human reproduction update 2003-03, Vol.9 (2), p.131-138
Main Authors: van Gestel, I., IJland, M. M., Hoogland, H. J., Evers, J. L. H.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
endometrial wave classification system
endometrial waves
Endometrium - diagnostic imaging
Endometrium - drug effects
Endometrium - physiology
Estradiol - pharmacology
Female
Humans
Menstrual Cycle - physiology
Movement - drug effects
non-pregnant uterus
Pregnancy
Progesterone - pharmacology
transvaginal ultrasound
Ultrasonography
Uterine Contraction - drug effects
Uterine Contraction - physiology
uterine contractions
Uterus - diagnostic imaging
Uterus - drug effects
Uterus - physiology
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Summary:The non-pregnant uterus shows wave-like activity throughout the menstrual cycle. This uterine activity was first detected using intra-uterine pressure recordings. The use of ultrasound has made it possible to study the movements of the uterus in a non-invasive manner. Throughout the menstrual cycle, several wavelike activity patterns have been described; these patterns change throughout the menstrual cycle and are governed by steroid hormones. An adequate wave pattern seems to be related to successful reproduction in spontaneous cycles and assisted reproduction. Further insight into the phenomenon of endometrial wave-like activity might offer an opportunity to correct abnormal wave patterns and thereby improve pregnancy rates.
ISSN:1355-4786
1460-2369
DOI:10.1093/humupd/dmg011