Full text is available at the source.
How natural melatonin levels relate to uterus contractions late in pregnancy
Updated
Abstract
A significant positive linear association exists between circulating melatonin concentrations and uterine contractions in women during late third trimester pregnancy.
- Circulating melatonin levels are higher at night, coinciding with the initiation of spontaneous labor.
- Uterine melatonin receptors are present only in women in labor and can stimulate uterine contractions.
- On average, uterine contractions increased by 1.4 to 2.1 contractions per 30 minutes for every 10 pg/mL*h increase in melatonin concentration.
- Light exposure may influence endogenous melatonin levels and uterine contractions.
Simplified