The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
University of Saskatchewan reproductive expert Roger Pierson received a Women's Health Hero Award from Chatelaine magazine yesterday for uncovering evidence that suggests the traditionally accepted model of the human menstrual cycle is wrong. The award, presented for the first time this year, recognizes Pierson and eight other Canadians for their contributions in advancing women's health. Pierson, head of the U of S reproductive biology research unit, made headlines around the world last summer when his research team discovered that contrary to traditional menstrual models, women experience two to three "waves" of follicular development each month, though only one egg is selected for ovulation. That means up to 40 per cent of women may not be able to use natural family planning methods because for women who experience two or three waves of dominant follicle growth per month there is no "safe" time to have intercourse during the cycle ? there may always be a follicle capable of ovulating. Pierson expects the discovery will lead to the design of safer and more effective contraception, improve success with assisted reproductive technology for women having trouble conceiving, and perhaps lead to a new understanding of puberty and menopause. He says the discovery couldn't have happened without the women who have the courage to volunteer in studies and the hard work and dedication of his team members, graduate student Angela Baerwald and U of S veterinarian Gregg Adams. "Canadian scientists and clinicians have added a great deal to the world's knowledge in reproduction and women's health," he says. "I think the Canadian taxpayers who have supported the work and the women who have volunteered to participate in studies need to know how important they are to on-going research that enhances women's health care."
