[Functional activity of platelets in preterm labor]

The platelet component of the hemostasis system was studied in women during preterm labor; platelet functional activity was correlated to changes in prostaglandins E and F-alpha, prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 concentrations. Preterm labor is associated with a significant elevation of platelet functional activity, compatible with that in timely labor. A marked elevation of blood prostaglandin levels was detected. The authors claim that elevated platelet functional activity results not from a gradual increase of the hemostatic potential, but from systemic effect of the labor activity trigger mechanisms on blood coagulation cellular mechanism.