Local Physiological Regulation and Modern Treatments in Gynaecology

A local hormone environment based on local transfer of hormones between adjacent blood vessels is importantfor the normal function of the genital system. The hormones from a large follicle or a corpus luteum are transferred locallyfrom ovarian venous blood to the ovarian arterial blood, thus the ipsilateral organs (ovary, Fallopian tube, and uterinecorner) receive blood with an increased hormonal content compared to that on the contralateral side. Likewise, messengersubstances from the uterus and Fallopian tube will reach the ovary through local transfer. A similar system exists withtransfer from vagina to uterus and urethra. The system of local transfer can be utilized for local treatments targetedtowards the urethra or uterus through drug deposits into the vagina. A small vaginal oestrogen dose will, for example,prevent post-menopausal degenerative changes in the urethra without inducing systemic effects.