EFFECTS OF PRENATAL MATERNAL ESTROGEN ON THE MALE UROGENITAL SYSTEM

  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 56  (5) , 537-542
Abstract
Effects of in utero exposure to estrogens on the testis and prostate were assessed in male perinates. Exposure to diethylstilbestrol alone or combined with other female sex hormones [estradiol, progesterone, hydroxyprogesterone] correlated with hypertrophy and squamous metaplasia of the prostatic utricle and ducts and with high ratios of Leydig cells to spermatogenic cells in the testis. These changes were not correlated with maternal diabetes, other congenital abnormalities, exposure to progestogens and steroidal estrogens or thyroid hormones. Within the affected group, an interaction was found between the hormones administered and the trimester during which treatment was started. Apparently, exogenous female sex hormones may interfere with the action of muellerian inhibiting factor in the human male fetus. The prostatic ducts respond to maternal estrogen treatment. Relevance to later health is unknown.

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