URINARY CATECHOLAMINE EXCRETION IN WOMEN WITH A NORMAL MENSTRUAL-CYCLE

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 92  (10) , 365-368
Abstract
The daily excretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine was analyzed throughout 1 menstrual cycle in 8 normal women under everyday circumstances. Blood levels of LH (luteinizing hormone), FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), prolactin, estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and cortisol were determined by RIA (radioimmunoassay) every other day, or daily around the time of ovulation. No characteristic cyclic variations were found in epinephrine except for a peak in the premenstrual period, while norepinephrine was increased during menstruation and at about the time of ovulation in all women. The cortisol patterns showed no characteristic cyclic changes. Possible correlations are discussed between cyclic catecholamine changes and the well-known psychological and emotional changes corresponding with the phases of the menstrual cycle.