Extended longitudinal study of uterine activity among low-risk women

Article Abstract:

A tocodynamometer is an instrument used for measuring uterine activity. Instrumentation now allows easy monitoring of pregnant women outside the hospital setting. Uterine activity monitoring is often used to monitor women who are at high risk for preterm delivery, with greatly increased activity indicating possible early labor. Little is known about uterine activity during the latter stages of pregnancy in women at low risk for preterm delivery. To examine this issue, 89 women who were at low risk for preterm delivery were monitored with a portable (ambulatory) device for 72 hours at three points in late pregnancy. Data from 81 of the pregnancies which were uncomplicated and proceeded to term was used in the final analysis. Results showed that intensity of uterine contractions and average hourly contraction rate increased as gestational age increased. The duration of uterine contractions was not shown to increase with gestational age. Once gestational age passed 26 weeks, frequency of uterine contractions was significantly greater at night than during the day. Contraction frequency was significantly less in women who were overweight than in those who were normal weight or underweight. This was thought to be caused by difficulties in monitoring these women. Contraction frequency was not associated with either the mother's age or previous number of pregnancies. The results of this study can be used to establish the characteristics of normal uterine activity in late pregnancy. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Pregnancy, Uterus, Uterine contractions

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The relationship between maternal age and uterine dysfunction: a continuous effect throughout reproductive life

Article Abstract:

Aging may have an adverse effect on the uterus, according to a study of 8,496 pregnant women. Older women were more likely to have a cesarean, require oxytocin to induce labor, or have a vaginal-assisted delivery using forceps or vacuum extraction. This increased risk began in the early 20s, not after 35 as commonly believed.

Statistical Data Included

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Increased risk of cesarean delivery with advancing maternal age: indications and associated factors in nulliparous women

Article Abstract:

Older pregnant women may be more likely to have a cesarean delivery because they have prolonged labor or fetal distress. They are also more likely to require induced labor, according to a study of 3,715 women.

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