[Battle of odors: significance of pheromones for human reproduction]

Abstract

The significance of odours for human reproduction is partially neglected by medical sciences. Nevertheless, it can be shown that male pheromones (androstenol/androstenone) from male sweat have a direct impact on female menstrual cycles and ovulation. Furthermore, female pheromones (copulins), which are present in vaginal secretions, influence male perception of females and may induce hormonal changes in males. The mutual pheromonal influence between the sexes is discussed as a result of sex-specific reproductive interests which are a consequence of evolutionary constraints.