Effect of Calcium on Estrogen and Follicle Stimulating Hormone Secretion in Rabbits

The effect of calcium gluconate on estrogen (estradiol) serum level as well as follicle stimulating hormone level was studied. Our results revealed that oral administration of calcium gluconate (100 mg/kg body wight) to adult non-pregnant female rabbits caused a significant increase of serum levels of estradiol and follicle stimulating hormone. On the other hand, oral contraceptive (Norminest tablets) decreased significantly follicle stimulating hormone serum level, while combined administration of calcium gluconate and oral contraceptive caused significant increase of serum level of follicle stimulating hormone compared with control values. Also, concurrent administration of calcium gluconate and Norminest tablet increased significantly the rate of conception compared with group recieved Norminest tablets only. These results indicated that combined administration of calcium and oral contraceptives must be cautiously.