The potential relevance of growth hormone to female reproductive physiology and pathophysiology.

To assess possible interfacing between the somatotrophic and reproductive axes. Literature review. Ovarian growth hormone reception and action. The available literature strongly supports a permissive role for the somatotrophic axis in the reproductive process. Although a role for growth hormone in reproductive biology appears highly likely, its relevance to the process of puberty and to the normal workings of the menstrual cycle, as well as its possible application in reproductive pathology must await further investigation.