STUDIES ON THE AROMATISATION OF NEUTRAL STEROIDS IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract
Using a variety of experimental techniques, including perfusion of placentas in situ, injection into the intact (feto-placental unit via the umbilical vein, as well as long-term administration into the amniotic sac or antecubial vein of the mother, very little if any estrone, 17[beta]-estradiol- or estriol-like radioactive material could be detected in the placenta, fetal tissues and urine of the mother following the administration of labelled progesterone. The results are interpreted as supporting the concept that progesterone is not a significant precursor of placental estrogens.