Expression of LGR7 in the primate corpus luteum implicates the corpus luteum as a relaxin target organ.

In women, the corpus luteum is the source of circulating relaxin. No previous studies have addressed whether the corpus luteum is also a relaxin target organ. We determined relaxin receptor LGR7 mRNA expression in human term pregnancy corpora lutea and nonhuman primate corpora lutea obtained during the menstrual cycle.

Antral follicle count is a significant predictor of livebirth in in vitro fertilization cycles.

In the first published demonstration that the antral follicle count (AFC) predicts live birth after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET), we found that an AFC of >or=11 was a strong positive predictor of live birth. The AFC should not be used to exclude women from IVF treatment; however, it is a very useful instrument for patient counseling and determining appropriate treatment protocols and gonadotropin dosing in IVF cycles.

Ovarian reserve screening: what the general gynecologist should know.

Ovarian reserve tests are an indirect measurement of a woman's remaining follicular pool and give an estimate of her sensitivity to ovarian stimulation and her prognosis for success with fertility treatments. They cannot be used to predict future fertility or the exact timing of the decline or cessation of fertility. It is important to become familiar with these tests and understand their correct performance and interpretation, including their limitations.