Effect of ‘Induced Labour’ on Hemorheological Parameters

Abstract

Augmentation of labour involving the use of exogenous oxytocin to improve uterine contraction is a common obstetric practice. Although this exogenous oxytocin is known for its effect on the uterus, little is known about its effect on other organs/physiological parameters. Hence, this study investigates the effect of oxytocin augmentation on hemorheological parameters. Ten pregnant control and 10 parturients on oxytocin augmented labour were involved in this study. Following standard laboratory procedures, blood samples were collected from the pregnant women and the samples were analysed using Swelab Alfa Automated Haematology Analyzer at St. Philomena Hospital. The data was then analysed using SPSS (version 17) and the ‘student t-test’ was performed. Results showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in the relative plasma viscosity, fibrinogen concentration, red cell count and related RBC indices between the control and the parturients. This observation may be due to the concomitant hydration provided by the oxytocin infusion. Therefore, the use of an adequate rehydration medium for augmentation of labour should be emphasized for all parturients.

Keywords: Augmented labour; Oxytoxin; Hemorheological parameter; Pregnant.