Final answer:
Clomiphene, a SERM, works by blocking estrogen receptors, increasing levels of FSH and LH to induce ovulation, contrasting with hormonal contraception that prevents pregnancy. It plays a key role in treating ovulatory dysfunction in women aiming to conceive.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mechanism of Action (MOA) for Clomiphene, a type of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM), involves blocking estrogen receptors in the brain, specifically in the hypothalamus. This blocking deceives the body into thinking there are low estrogen levels, leading to increased production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) by the anterior pituitary.
The surge in these hormones stimulates ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. Clomiphene is often used in cases where a woman experiences difficulty in conceiving due to problems with ovulation. In reproductive physiology, estrogen plays a pivotal role by assisting in endometrial regrowth and the fulfillment of female secondary sexual characteristics. Progesterone complements estrogen's actions by aiding in the preparation of the reproductive tract for implantation and maintaining pregnancy.