Prolactin in normal pregnancy: relationship of maternal, fetal, and amniotic fluid levels

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1975 Dec 15;123(8):834-8. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(75)90858-3.

Abstract

Serum prolactin was measured simultaneously by a homologous radioimmunoassay in 92 parturients and their offspring at term, and in maternal serum and amniotic fluid during various stages of normal pregnancy. Serum levels of 208 +/- 8 ng. per millilter were found in maternal blood; the corresponding levels in the cord serum were 354 +/- 14 ng. per milliliter. Prolactin levels in amniotic fluid were found to be 2- to 10-fold higher than the corresponding levels of the mothers. The possible source of the amniotic fluid prolactin molecule, which is identical with the human pituitary molecule, is discussed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Amniotic Fluid / analysis*
  • Female
  • Fetal Blood / analysis*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Pregnancy*
  • Prolactin / analysis
  • Prolactin / blood*
  • Radioimmunoassay

Substances

  • Prolactin