Effects of sex steroids and related compounds on pregnancy and on development of the young.

Abstract

Extensive animal research has shown that endogenous estrogens and progestins play a vital role in controlling the course of normal pregnancy and fetal development. The balance of the 2 types of hormones must be maintained, a relative excess of deficiency of either being detrimental to the offspring. Information on this topic is presented from a review of the animal study literature. The effect of sex steroids in the following areas of pregnancy and fetal development is discussed: 1) interruption of gestation; 2) antifertility effects; 3) prolonged gestation; 4) maintenance of pregnancy; 5) fetal masculinization; 6) fetal feminization; 7) teratogenic effects; 8) postnatal effects of steroids on males and females; 9) steroid transfer through milk; and 10) female sterility induction through early postnatal administration of steroids.