Electromechanical activities of human uteri during extra-corporeal perfusion with ovarian steroids

A new experimental system was designed to study human uterine activities based on the extra-corporeal perfusion of isolated human uteri. Electromechanical activities in the uterine wall were recorded using bipolar silver-silver electrodes, endoluminal pressure catheters and a dedicated acquisition, storage and analytical system. The electrical signals recorded were isolated spikes and rhythmic activities; the last being primarily associated with organized mechanical events. Perfusion media containing 17 beta-oestradiol alone or with progesterone were used for those uteri obtained during proliferative (n = 5) or secretory (n = 5) phases of the menstrual cycle, respectively. Progesterone caused a reduction of frequency (P < 0.001) and duration (P < 0.001) of the rhythmic electrical activity, and decreased the endoluminal pressure at both detection sites (P < 0.01). 17 beta-Oestradiol increased both frequency (P < 0.001) and duration (P < 0.001) of the rhythmic electrical activity as well as the endoluminal pressure at two different detection sites (3 and 5 cm from the fundus) (P < 0.05). Significant differences between the fundus and cervix sites in the uterine wall were detected. In conclusion, uterine perfusion would be useful to examine the effects of uterotonic and tocolytic drugs before administration to humans, at no risk to the patients. Oestrogens increase and progesterone decreases both electrical and mechanical uterine activities.