Re: Influence of Gonadotrophic Hormones

Cheryl:

The gonadotropic hormones, Luteinizing hormone (LH)and follicle-
stimulating hormone (FSH) are involved indirectly in the production of 
axial and pubic hair in post-puberal women.  LH and FSH act together to 
stimulate the production of estrogen (estradiol 17-beta)  by the follicles 
of the ovary.  This estrogen is largely responsible for stimulating the 
growth of axial and pubic hair (Cotisol is also important).

As a woman progresses through menopause, there will be a decrease in the 
amount of estrogen produced by the ovaries. As a result, these areas of 
the body begin to lose hair.  

Below are a few web sites dealing with puberty/menopause and hair growth.
 http://www.hon.ch/Dossier/MotherChild/female_repro/puberty.html
 http://www.wdxcyber.com/ngen16.htm
 http://www.yourmenopausetype.com/menopausequestionsandanswers/07092000.html

I hope this helps....

David Mallory, PhD
Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
Marshall University
Huntington, WV  USA