Amniotic fluid prostaglandins F2α and E2 , measured at artificial rupture of the membranes”, predict the subsequent progress of labour

Prostaglandin F_2α and E₂ concentrations in the amniotic fluid and fetal membranes of 35 patients was analysed, in order to investigate differences in prostaglandin synthesis in parous and nulliparous women, and to find whether women who subsequently required oxytocin to accelerate labour, showed any difference in intrauterine prostaglandin concentrations. Significantly less PGF_2α was detected in the amniotic fluid of women who required oxytocin, and fetal membrane PGE₂ was significantly lower in these women at delivery. Differences in PGE₂ and PGF_2α in parous and nulliparous women were less mar ed. Amniotic fluid levels of PGF₂ at Artificial Rupture of the Membranes (ARM), and the ratio of PGF_2α/PGE₂ at ARM, were prognostic for the subsequent progression of labour.