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Vasopressin, ACTH and neonatal haemodynamics
Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica. Supplement
|January 1, 1983
Summary
High concentrations of arginine vasopressin (AVP) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) during normal delivery indicate physiological adaptation. These hormones aid in managing delivery stress and preparing infants for life outside the womb.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Arginine vasopressin (AVP) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) play crucial roles in physiological responses to stress.
- Understanding the hormonal dynamics during childbirth is essential for neonatal adaptation.
- Previous research has explored AVP and ACTH in various birth scenarios, but specific correlations with immediate neonatal physiological parameters require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cord blood concentrations of AVP and ACTH and physiological parameters in newborns.
- To compare AVP and ACTH levels and associated physiological responses across different delivery modes: normal vaginal delivery, Caesarean section after labor onset, and elective Caesarean section.
- To explore the relationship between vasopressin and ACTH in the context of childbirth stress.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of cord blood AVP and ACTH concentrations in infants undergoing different delivery modes.
- Monitoring of neonatal blood pressure and skin temperature.
- Comparison of hormonal levels and physiological data between groups.
Main Results:
- In normal deliveries, high cord blood AVP and ACTH concentrations correlated with higher blood pressure and lower skin temperature, suggesting peripheral vasoconstriction.
- Infants born via Caesarean section after labor onset exhibited lower cord AVP and blood pressure compared to normal delivery but higher than those from elective Caesarean sections.
- Maternal AVP levels were normal at delivery, and infant plasma AVP normalized by 3 days postpartum.
Conclusions:
- Massive release of AVP during normal delivery is linked to elevated ACTH and peripheral vasoconstriction.
- These hormonal and physiological changes represent a favorable adaptation to the hypoxic stress of delivery.
- The findings suggest a mechanism for redistributing cardiac output to vital organs and facilitating necessary adjustments for extrauterine existence.