Trace elements' concentrations in maternal and umbilical cord plasma at term gestation: A comparison between active labor and elective cesarean delivery

Tal Lazer, Ofra Paz-Tal, Ohad Katz, Barak Aricha-Tamir, Yehuda Sheleg, Rachel Maman, Tali Silberstein, Moshe Mazor, Arnon Wiznitzer, Eyal Sheiner

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    8 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Objective.Trace elements are minerals required in minute quantities to maintain proper physical functioning. The role of trace elements in the process of parturition is poorly understood. This study was aimed to determine levels of trace elements' concentration in maternal plasma and umbilical venous and arterial plasma at term during active labor vs elective cesarean delivery (CD). Study design.A prospective casecontrol study was conducted. Forty healthy parturients in active labor at term with their newborns were compared to 40 healthy parturients matched for maternal age, parity, and gestational age, who delivered by elective CD (before commencement of labor). Samples of maternal venous blood and umbilical cord arterial and venous blood were drawn immediately following delivery. Trace elements' concentrations were measured using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Results.Significant higher levels of manganese (Mn) and selenium were found in maternal venous plasma during active labor vs elective CD. Magnesium (Mg) levels were significantly higher in maternal venous blood during elective CD compared to active labor. Umbilical cord artery levels of Mg, Mn, and zinc (Zn) were significantly higher in active term labor vs elective CD. Also, significant higher levels of copper and Zn were found in umbilical cord vein between active labor and elective CD. Conclusion.Trace elements' concentrations differ significantly in fetal blood during active labor vs elective CD. Hence, trace elements may play a crucial role in the process of human parturition.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)286-289
    Number of pages4
    JournalJournal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine
    Volume25
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 1 Mar 2012

    Keywords

    • Trace elements
    • active labor
    • cesarean delivery
    • parturition

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
    • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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