Relation between maternal plasmatic zinc levels and uterine contractility

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Uterine contractility is crucial for labor progression and postpartum hemostasis.
• Maternal nutrition, including micronutrient status, can influence obstetric outcomes.
• Zinc plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including muscle function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between maternal plasma zinc levels (PZL) and uterine contractility during pregnancy and delivery.
• To assess the association of PZL with labor duration, mode of delivery, and postpartum hemorrhage.
• To explore the potential role of zinc in preventing complications like uterine atony.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 336 pregnant women was studied.
• Plasma zinc levels were measured during gestation and at delivery.
• Data on labor duration, mode of delivery, and postpartum hemorrhage were collected and analyzed in relation to PZL.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in PZL were observed across different gestational periods (p < 0.001).
• PZL showed significant correlations with the duration of the active labor period (p < 0.05) and the final mode of delivery (p < 0.05).
• Women requiring cesarean section due to uterine atony had significantly lower PZL compared to other women.

Conclusions:

• Maternal plasma zinc levels are significantly associated with uterine contractility and labor outcomes.
• Low PZL may be a risk factor for uterine atony, prolonged labor, and postpartum hemorrhage.
• Supplementation with zinc is recommended for pregnant women with PZL below 60 micrograms/dl (9 μmol/l) to potentially improve uterine function and reduce obstetric complications.