Hormonal vaginal cytology of vervet monkeys.

The cellular proliferation and maturation of the vaginal epithelium of adult female Vervet monkeys was examined during their menstrual cycles. At the same time the serum contents of estrogen and progesterone were analysed. Gradual but distinct patterns demarcated the phases of the menstrual cycle cytologically. The karyopyknotic index paralleled the estrogen concentration. Mid-cycle peak maturation produced many anucleate squames, which exfoliated, forming a diagnostic vaginal discharge.