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Calcium-regulating hormones and ions in amniotic fluid
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 1, 1980
Summary
During pregnancy, amniotic fluid calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus decrease significantly. Fetal parathyroid hormone declines, suggesting suppressed activity due to higher fetal calcium levels.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Endocrinology
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Calcium homeostasis is crucial during pregnancy for both maternal and fetal well-being.
- Hormonal and ionic shifts regulate calcium metabolism throughout gestation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze concentrations of hormones and ions involved in calcium homeostasis.
- To compare levels in simultaneous amniotic fluid and maternal blood samples.
- To understand calcium regulation during normal pregnancy from 14 weeks' gestation to term.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous collection of amniotic fluid and maternal blood samples.
- Analysis of total and ionized calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin.
- Samples obtained from normal pregnant women between 14 weeks' gestation and term.
Main Results:
- Amniotic fluid calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels decreased progressively throughout gestation.
- Ionized calcium remained constant in both amniotic fluid and maternal serum.
- Amniotic fluid parathyroid hormone declined after 20 weeks, while maternal levels rose.
- Calcitonin levels were unchanged, with lower concentrations in amniotic fluid than maternal serum.
Conclusions:
- Fetal parathyroid activity appears suppressed in late pregnancy, possibly due to fetal hypercalcemia.
- Maternal and fetal calcium homeostasis involves complex hormonal and ionic regulation during gestation.