[The inhibition of coagulation in cord plasma (author's transl)]

203 Plasma samples from the umbilical vein were tested for their inhibitory activity in coagulation. Disturbance of the assay by the presence of thrombocytes, fibrin(ogen) degradation products and by storage was avoided by an improved preparation method of the plasma. The mean inhibition was dependent on the way of delivery (spontaneous, by vaginal operation or by caesarean section). The mean inhibition was also dependent on birth weight and on the duration of gravidity. A possible mechanism for the generation of the inhibition is discussed.