INTERACTION OF GONADAL STEROIDS AND THEIR EFFECT ON SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR IN THE RABBIT

Abstract

SUMMARY The effect of progestins on mating and pseudomale behaviour was studied in ovariectomized rabbits receiving 0·5 μg. oestradiol benzoate twice daily. Single injections of 0·5, 1·0 and 2·0 mg. progesterone resulted in a 50, 75 and 100% inhibition of mating behaviour respectively. In all groups maximum inhibition occurred 24 hr. after progesterone treatment. Pseudomale behaviour was also inhibited by progesterone but the response was more variable. Single injections of 8 or 20 mg. 20α-hydroxypregn-4-en-3-one did not produce a significant inhibition of either mating or pseudomale behaviour. The physiological role of these hormones in regulating sexual behaviour is discussed.