What role do GnRH agonists play in women's health?

• A. Treating urinary incontinence
• B. Managing endometriosis pain
• C. Relieving menopausal symptoms
• D. Preventing ovarian cancer

Answer: (B)

GnRH agonists play a significant role in managing endometriosis pain. These medications act on the hypothalamus to stimulate the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which then leads to a decrease in the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. This results in a hypoestrogenic state, which is beneficial in treating endometriosis as it reduces the growth of endometrial tissue and alleviates associated symptoms such as pelvic pain.

In contrast, while urinary incontinence and menopausal symptoms may be addressed through other hormone therapies, GnRH agonists are not typically the first-line treatments for these conditions. Additionally, although there is ongoing research concerning the potential role of GnRH agonists in cancer prevention, their primary and well-established use in women's health currently focuses on the management of endometriosis. Thus, the use of GnRH agonists is particularly relevant in alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis, making this option the correct answer.