Reproductive complications after stroke: Long-lasting impairment of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal network?

Abstract

Some studies have demonstrated that stroke may increase the risk of pregnancy complications and early menopause. In addition, preclinical investigations revealed the middle cerebral artery occlusion could affect hypothalamus. Since hypothalamus is the core of central circuits regulating reproductive processes, impairment of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal network following stroke might be manifested in long-lasting reproductive disorders.

Keywords: GnRH; HPA axis; cerebral ischemia; early menopause; glutamate excitotoxicity; pregnancy complication.